Laois artist John’s stunning exhibition depicts lockdown life in art
The Drumm family from Clonaghadoo are brothers David, and John (exhibiting artist) with parents Jo and Seamus pictured at John's art exhibition launch in Mountmellick Library Photos: Stan Henderson
ARTIST John Drumm from Clonaghadoo recently launched his second exhibition in Mountmellick Library and Art Gallery.
The bright and glowing collection of oil paintings titled ‘Dance Again’ explores life during and after the Covid lockdowns. The collection features scenes of social gatherings outside of lockdowns and represent John’s interpretation of reconnecting with society after restrictions were lifted. The expressions on people's faces and their different personalities can be seen in each eye-catching piece.
The talented artist, who holds a degree in visual art from Dún Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology, held an exhibition of pencil drawings in the same venue 12 years ago and said that he returned to his love for art during lockdown, when he began painting.
Speaking to the ***Laois Nationalist*** at the launch of his exhibition, John said: “I went to art college where I studied photography, multimedia and everything bar painting really, but I eventually became drawn to painting when Covid happened. Lots of the pieces are based on different nights out that I was on, and they are also based on different ways of expressing myself. Many are from nights out at festivals after Covid, when I might still have been feeling anxious about being in crowds.
“Most of these paintings are painted from photographs that I took in packed venues and festivals, including the Electric Picnic while I was holding the phone in my hand and capturing images of the crowds. When on nights out, you can be dazed by all of the lights flashing all around you and people often asked me if I had zoned out or something, but I was just so amazed with the different lights that I was wondering how I would best portray those scenes.” Amanda Hyland, branch manager at Mountmellick Library, said: “The three rooms of our art gallery are packed with John’s amazing exhibition. The viewer is really drawn into each painting. Not only are they colourful and vibrant but they really capture a wonderful energy. We would encourage everyone to come along and support local artists.” ‘Dance Again’ can be viewed during library opening hours until the end of February.
For enquiries, the artist can be found on Instagram by searching @john.f_paint, and the library’s phone number is 057 8689382.
