Frances ‘thrilled’ about exhibition in arts centre

Frances ‘thrilled’ about exhibition in arts centre

29 January 2025

A LOCAL artist says “thrilled” to have her paintings on display at Down Arts Centre in Downpatrick. 

Frances O’Reilly’s exhibition, entitled ‘Roselight’, is a series of abstract landscapes, drawn from observation of the natural world and the dynamic forces of nature. 

“It’s a lovely success and I have just sold the signature piece ‘roselight’ to a buyer in Switzerland,” she said.

The artist, who lives on the edge of the Mournes, has been engaged with art for as long as she can remember. 

“My degree specialism was Film/Photography at the University of Ulster. Alongside this I have always had an art practice. 

“This developed more fully about 10 years ago, when I was able to design a purpose built studio in Rostrevor.”

Frances is no stranger to exhibiting her work, having had a number of solo exhibitions and participating in many group shows over the course of her career.

“I have often travelled in relation to my work. My favourite places to exhibit have been group exhibitions in Cornwall, Ferrera in Spain, Leuven in Belgium, Glenstall Abbey in Limerick as well as my solo exhibition in Armagh Market Place in Armagh, which was particularly special.”

Last year, Frances received a Tyrone Guthrie bursary award, which led to a two-week residency.

Currently, the main subject of her work is the physical landscape and the incidental details of everyday life.

Frances has a new website created by Belfast Exposed Gallery (francesoreilly.com) and can also be found on Instagram (francesoreillyartist).