Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards is pleased to welcome two new exhibitions to its Georgian and Sunburst Galleries: Tribes & Tribulations: A Touring Exhibition a solo exhibition by Helen Merrigan Colfer, and Time Registered in Spinning Dials.., a solo exhibition by Oliver Galbraith.
In Tribes & Tribulations, award winning visual artist Helen Merrigan Colfer explores a deeply personal journey from childhood to adulthood in the ongoing search for belonging and self-acceptance. Through emotionally resonant sculptures – shaped by a strong sense of place, coastal surroundings, and a deep love of nature – Colfer reflects on the universal human desire to find one’s “Tribe.”
Audiences can expect totemic forms representing inner strength, transformation, and resilience. The works confront themes of conformity, identity, and personal power, moving through darkness and light. As Colfer asks, “Is that journey complete or still underway?” the exhibition invites reflection, hope, and a sense of shared humanity.
Time Registered in Spinning Dials, by recent graduate Oliver Galbraith, explores the Ards Peninsula with its string of towns scattered along its jagged edges. With the decline of traditional industries many working aged residents now commute for work elsewhere. These places, capturing the psychogeography of the area created by governmental neglect and isolation. Through images of abandoned shop fronts, empty streets and overlooked edges, the series reflects on the tension between past and progress. A visual journey through towns that have been left behind by those in control, where once vibrant areas are now facing a decline of local identity.
Both exhibitions open on Thursday 11 December and continue until Saturday 17 January. Admission is free.
All are welcome to attend a Preview Event in Ards Arts Centre on Thursday 11 December at 7pm.
On 11 December at 6.30pm, join us at Ards Arts Centre for an artist talk with Helen Merrigan Colfer, in conversation with Noelle McAlinden. Together, they will discuss Helen’s touring exhibition and reflect on the artist’s journey, sources of inspiration, and artistic practice as one of Ireland’s most prolific sculptors. Admission is free but advanced registration is required.
For more information visit; www.andculture.org.uk