Royal Ulster Academy at the Graffan Gallery
As part of the Royal Ulster Academy’s (RUA) aim to engage with the broader public, a select number of Academy members will exhibit at the Graffan Gallery from the 22 April to the 8 May 2011. The exhibition focuses on two-dimensional works which incorporate the use of oils, watercolour, acrylic, pastel and other mixed media.
Exhibiting artists include Barbara Allen, Margaret Arthur, Betty Brown, Richard Croft, Chris Dearden, Brian Ferran, Denise Ferran, Julian Friers, Carol Graham, Terry Gravett, Ros Harvey, Helen Kerr, Bob Killen, Jim Manley, Norman Smyth and Keith Wilson. To coincide with the exhibition a special painting demonstration and informal talk by four RUA members (suitable for adults) will take place on Sunday 8 May @ 2.30pm. The talk will focus on the artist’s different painting techniques and how they approach their work in general. They will also discuss the history of the RUA, how members are elected, Academy activities such as the Annual Exhibition etc. The participating artists are Julian Friers PRUA, Bob Killen RUA, Paul Walls ARUA and Betty Brown ARUA. Bookings can be made through Castle Espie’s Wetland Centre on 028 91874146 or by emailing info.castleespie@wwt.org.uk
Castle Espie Wetland Centre opens from 10am daily. It is free to park, visit The Loughshore Café, the shop, Graffan Gallery and Drumlin Theatre, but normal admission applies to the grounds. When visiting the garden event, why not enjoy freshly prepared meals and snacks and browse in the shop or make a day of it and take a stroll in the wetlands.
Beyond Castle Espie’s award-winning eco-friendly visitor centre lies a mix of restored lagoons, woodland walks, grassland, salt marshes and reed beds already populated with Ireland’s largest collection of water-birds. Other wildlife includes otters, bats and dragonflies and young visitors can enjoy indoor and outdoor play areas.
Get in free when you if you join. You can then avail of free access to all nine wetland centres across the UK. For more information on opening times and events please call 028 9187 4146 or click wwt.org.uk/castleespie
