There was an impressive contingent of Donegal artists represented at the unveiling of the Royal Ulster Academy’s 143rd Annual Exhibition at the Ulster Museum this week.
The prestigious exhibition, which features more than 300 works of contemporary art, included several of Donegal’s emerging talents and established names alike.
Among the prizewinning works from Donegal were Gartan artist Daniel Nelis, who won the Ross’s Portrait Award and BradburyArt Drawing Prize for “Study of a Girl in Late Spring”.
Daniel Nelis won the Ross’s Portrait Award and the BradburyArt Drawing Prize for ‘Study of a Girl in Late Spring’
Veronica Buchanan from Buncrana was honoured with the ArtTalks ArtWalks Inaugural Textiles Award for her piece “Silently Strong.”
Veronica Buchanan ‘Silently Strong’
St Johnston’s Ann Quinn won the Ulster Watercolour Society Watercolour Prize for “Starlings Chirping on Plum Trees”.
Ann Quinn
Starlings Chirping on Plum Trees
Newmills Sculptor Christy Keeney’s “An Angel at my side” was recognized with the Sea Holly Gallery Prize.
Christy Keeney
An Angel at my side.
Philip Mackey, Redmond Herrity, and Samantha Ellis Fox also had works selected for the exhibition.
As the largest body of practicing visual artists in Northern Ireland, the RUA has been a cornerstone of the arts since its founding in 1879. This year’s exhibition features nearly 350 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, audiovisual installations, ceramics, textiles, and more.
Philip Mackey
Macola
Samantha Fox
Girl in Sequinned Dress
Redmond Herrity
Delivered
Daniel Dowling, President of the Royal Ulster Academy said “This year’s exhibition showcases the exceptional creativity that thrives here in Northern Ireland and beyond. We’re bringing together an incredible mix of art from both seasoned and emerging artists. It’s a fantastic celebration of creativity and innovation, and I’m thrilled for everyone to experience this visual feast.”
The RUA’s Annual Exhibition is free to the public, inviting art enthusiasts, collectors,
and casual visitors alike to explore the vibrant world of contemporary art. Last year,
the exhibition attracted 100,000 visitors, with total sales exceeding £200,000,
underscoring the exhibition’s importance as both a cultural and commercial event.
Exhibition Dates: October 18, 2024 – January 6, 2025
Location: The Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens, Belfast
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5:00pm (Closed Mondays)
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