Four Offaly-based artists join forces for Tullamore exhibition

THE public are warmly invited to join four Offaly-based artists at Esker Arts, Tullamore, at 3pm on Saturday 14th November, for the opening of ‘Diversity’, featuring the work of Olive Cuskelly, Paula Finlay, Ann Mitchell and Regina Bracken.

‘Diversity’ brings four accomplished artists into one shared space, showcasing a variety of styles, subject matters, mediums and techniques which gives their art a multi-layered appeal. Each artist has developed her own creative identity, and this exhibition offers audiences an opportunity to experience their work side by side.

Visitors are encouraged to look beyond individual pieces, explore the different approaches to making art and discover new ways of seeing familiar subjects. ‘Diversity’ also creates an opportunity for the artists themselves to step outside the often-solitary nature of their practice, by bringing their work together and exploring the relationships between their different approaches.

The opening has particular significance for the local arts community. Esker Arts provides a valuable platform for local artists, bringing creativity directly to the community and allowing audiences to experience the talent on their doorstep. By presenting four distinct practices together, ‘Diversity’ celebrates the contribution of Offaly artists while highlighting the importance of an accessible, vibrant arts space in the Midlands.

Olive Cuskelly, based near Ballinagar/Daingean, is showcasing her artistry through the vibrant medium of soft pastel. Her creations capture the interplay of light and colour with delicate layering, emphasizing the significance and beauty of nature and the connections we share with it. She invites viewers to experience a real sense of belonging through her work.

Paula Finlay, hails from Tullamore and works primarily in oils to capture still life scenes and landscapes focusing on light, colour and simple details. She is especially drawn to quiet ordinary beauty, being inspired by how the light moves through the sky and filters into everyday life.

Ann Mitchell is a contemporary figurative artist from Gallen, County Offaly. Ann works mainly in oils, gold leaf and mixed media. Her work explores the human experience, particularly themes of memory, vulnerability, resilience and protection. Through the human figure, she seeks to capture the quiet tension between strength and fragility, suggesting stories and emotions beyond what is immediately visible.

Regina Bracken, a wildlife and portrait artist, living near Blueball, Tullamore focuses on the importance of wild spaces through her biro and oil creations. Her art reminds us to connect with our wild hearts amidst a controlled world. Each piece shows the importance of wild spaces for the creatures in our world.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the collective vision of these four artists! The exhibition will continue until December 18th. Further information: https://eskerarts.ie/events/diversity