Renowned Comber artist Kathryn unveils new exhibition showcasing local coastline

31 July 2024

A RENOWNED Co Down artist has unveiled a unique exhibition which pays tribute to the stunning Northern Ireland coastline.

The Northern Ireland Art Trail, curated by Kathryn Callaghan, showcases 10 of her original artworks.

Kathryn’s paintings on the trail are designed to celebrate the rich local coastal landscapes, charming villages, vibrant local communities and warm hospitality that make Northern Ireland a must visit destination.

Each painting aims to evoke cherished memories in those who view them as significant life milestones, important people in their lives and thoughts of times gone by.

“I have a deep love for Northern Ireland and everything it represents as my home,” Kathryn said. “Creating the Northern Ireland Art Trail took me to places I love to visit and which hold fond memories for me.

“I was able to conjure up so many wonderful memories of my happy childhood and of then making memories with my own children through this journey in completing these 10 artworks.

“I thought summer would be the best time to exhibit the paintings as families could take a few day trips over the holidays to make their own memories and appreciate my art in these spectacular locations.”

Each painting is strategically placed in, or close to the location depicted within the painting itself.

One of them is of Newcastle’s Bloody Bridge, which will be shown at the Slieve Donard Hotel, inspired by her childhood memories of playing in the rock pools on a hot day.

For Kathryn, the Newcastle coast represents the opportunity to unwind and be close to nature.

Another is of Strangford, which will be on display The Lobster Pot restaurant.

Kathryn has fond memories of childhood trips on the Strangford ferry, visits to Castle Ward and Kilclief and getting chips and ice cream.

Another painting, ‘The Mournes from

Murlough’, which will be displayed in the Buck’s Head Inn in Dundrum, is reminiscent of more childhood day trips to Newcastle as the Mournes came into view during her drive from Comber.

“The memories I have of the places I’ve painted transport me right back to my early years with my parents through to more independent experiences with friends as a teenager,” Kathryn explained.

“Revisiting these places was such a joy and connecting with the business owners in the host venues we have partnered with was equally rewarding.

“I deliberately created each piece in a very spontaneous, gestural way, capturing my emotions and the essence of each place, rather than producing exact visual representations.”

She added: I’m immensely grateful to the local venues that have collaborated with me to display my artwork for the enjoyment of the general public, to be appreciated by both local and international visitors.

“It’s lovely to have their support and their space for hanging paintings, giving an opportunity to enjoy my art for free and be accessible to everyone.”

To learn more about Kathryn artwork, visit Kathryn Callaghan Fine Art at https://www.kathryncallaghan.co.uk/ or on social media at https://www.facebook.com/kcfineart/.

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