Fragments of Laois on show in Mountmellick
The beautiful show is on view at Mountmellick Library. Photo: Stan Henderson
A WONDERFUL group exhibition titled was launched in Mountmellick Library, as part of the Lovely Laois Homecoming Festival created by the county’s star of country music Trudi Lalor.
The exhibition is from Mountmellick-based photographer Alan Lacosse and Portlaoise-based artists Honor Hales, Wiktoria Mrozowicz and Javeria Zain Khan who all made Laois their home, which captures the essence and ethos of Trudi’s inaugural festival.
The captivating exhibition of creative photographs and vibrant paintings fill the walls of the spacious and bright three-roomed art gallery in the library, where they will remain on display until Tuesday 16 September.
Honor Hales is a mixed media artist whose vibrant creations reflect a lifelong dedication to colour, texture and connection. Javeria Zain Khan is a self-taught semi-abstract and abstract artist who finds art a powerful tool for emotional healing and expression.
Wiktoria is a visual artist who paints landscapes and still life and is a musician who plays fiddle, guitar, highland pipes and piano. Alan has had a keen interest in photography since his younger years, which clearly shows through his skilful photographs.
The group said they were delighted to be part of a festival that celebrated the county’s people, heritage and creativity. They said that the festival offered returning diaspora, visitors and locals alike the chance to reconnect with the rich spirit of Lovely Laois. As part of this wider programme of events, the group said that their exhibition invited audiences to pause, reflect and experience the ways in which art and photography capture the essence of belonging.
The Queen of Irish Country music attended the event with her friend Annette Doyle from Wexford. Commenting for the , Trudi said: “The talent that is in our county is just mind-blowing.”
She said: “To see the beauty that we have in our county being captured by wonderful artists and photographers who have made Laois their home is amazing. Even though Javeria, Honor, Wiktoria and Alan are not natives of this county, they’re a huge part of the Laois community and family and that’s what this festival is all about.
"What a brilliant array of talent we have here in Mountmellick Library. They are incredible artists and photographers.”
The beautiful exhibition includes mixed media, acrylics, watercolours, pastels, driftwood and photography. All the exhibitors can be found on their social media pages.
