“Stand By Me” an exhibition of oil paintings by the artist Máire Gartland

Artist Máire Gartland says …….

“Moon River” (oil on canvas)

For many years, The Irish Cultural Centre has been home to both traditional and innovative music, theatre and dance. For a painter, it does present a challenge, both physically and conceptually. Painting needs to stand up for itself in such an eclectic space and be able to create it’s own rhythm.

I feel privileged to have been invited to take up the challenge. The darkness of the interior is an invitation to attend to the light; to add colour and texture. It entices me to dance to the music.

I celebrate the solstice and the full moon … both of which are with us on the same date this month. They offer us wonderful light, both in the morning and in the Stygian night. The moon is a recurring theme in my work, as are the colours the sky can take on at dawn and dusk. The works I have made for this exhibition combine these themes with song lyrics as well as my response to those seeking safety on our shores.

“I paint and make installations. Since Covid I have returned to figuration. That time anchored us to our position on the earth and made us more aware of the turning of the days, the darkness and the light as well as our connection to each other. 

And in the meantime, people in small boats continue to risk their lives for freedom or for the chance to celebrate the turning of the days in peace.

There is some of that in my work too…

 May we all find peace in the music of the spheres. And joy in celestial song”.

About the Artist

Máire Gartland  was born and educated in Dublin. She studied at The National College of Art and Trinity College Dublin. She has a teaching degree from UCL. Máire has lived and worked as a practising artist in West London since 1972. She has had many solo and group shows in Britain, Ireland, Spain and India,  including three shows at the Irish Cultural Centre.

Instagram  @mairegartland

Www.mairegartland.co.uk