Whimsical exhibition is wholesome too!
"A most wholesome exhibition" was how Whimsical Nature at the Johnston Central Library Events Space was described at its recent opening.
The show by Ballyhaise native Jacqueline O'Neill and Aideen Lynch from Bailieborough is a harmonious marriage of textile, silk screen and pastel on paper.
Both artists are clearly tuned to nature and the natural environment as their work draws on the rural environment and the animal world for inspiration and material. The materials used are hand dyed with tea and berries, thus giving the viewer a glimpse into an older world of craft, industry and self reliance.
The exhibition included diverse pieces such as beanbags, a hammock, dresses, headscarves, and textile wall hangings.
Exhibiting artist Aideen said feedback was very positive.
"There was a good range of pieces for people to look at, and I think people were pleasantly surprised because some weren't familiar with textile art and didn't really know what to expect," said Aideen.
Herself and Jacqueline were delighted with how the opening night and ensuing exhibition went.
"We're extremely pleased. The opening was very good fun. There was a lovely atmosphere, the musicians were really good, and the speeches were great and very encouraging," said Aideen, adding that she and Jacqueline had friends and family travel from places including Galway and Dublin.
"We both sold a lot of work on the opening night and in the days after."
Both artists are recent graduates of Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT). Aideen is studying for a Masters in Arts Management. Jacqueline is moving to London to gain experience working in the textile design area.
In advance of Jacqueline's departure, they are giving a talk to students at Cavan Institute.
In Whimsical Nature, Aideen's pastel drawings depict reeds and the lakeside, isolating a single stem or blades of grass focusing the viewer on the uniqueness of this small element of the entire vista while hinting at the larger landscape. The selection of silk screen and digitally printed textiles with hand embroidery show the attention to detail and the solid craft basis for this work. Again, small elements become the central focus of the work of art reminding us of the magnificent in the ordinary.
Jacqueline is taken with the fantastic and her cats personify the animal in classic storytelling. Personable, energetic and opinionated they are the stuff of fairytales and young audiences will certainly identify and respond to this work. Perspective and shape are elements of interest in the work and the artist juxtaposes natural and man made to create interest and intrigue. What is left out of the painting becomes central to the viewer, creating an alternative piece from the artist's tantalising suggestiveness.
The hand-dyed fashions are a dream. Wholesome again comes to mind with the cut, fabric and pattern.
• The artists are open to commissions. Contact Aideen at 086-0876304 or Jacqueline at 087-0666873.
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