This year’s Eigse Carlow arts festival confirms its reputation for attracting the broadest range of painting, photography and sculpture. Held at three locations in Carlow town, St Patrick’s College, the Carlow Institute of Technology and the unfinished Shamrock Plaza,it pulls the crowds in from near and afar. Visual Coordinator, Paddy McGovern, has assembled an enthralling and eclectic programme. The diversity means there is something for everyone and seals the festival’s reputation for bringing art to the people.
There are a number of excellent solo painting exhibitions. These include Stephen McKenna’s series of international ports. The painting featured above is one of his and features his vision of Alcantara. Cheerful in character, the artist simplifies the visual detail of his subjects, lending them a fresh populist perspective. “It’s reality, but not quite as we know it; cleaner, more clearly defined, more generally inviting. You’d like to be there.”
Marie Hanlon delights the eye with her colourful abstracts and Sinead Alderidge displays works with toned down colours and interlocking forms that recall the works of the great St Ives painter, Peter Lanyon.
Nick Evans displays a series of sculptures that evoke bodily parts. The style is brash with an in your face quality that instantly engages the viewer.
The above is just a small sample of the visual delights which make up the exhibition. If you can make the trip, you will find it well worth it.
Éigse Carlow exhibitions are at St Patrick’s College, Carlow Institute of Technology and Shamrock Plaza, 12 noon to 6pm daily, until Sunday.
