FERMANAGH and Omagh District Council welcomes internationally acclaimed artist Julian Friers to the Higher Bridges Gallery.

This unique and powerful exhibition celebrates key cultural champions in the music industry from across the island of Ireland, recorded on canvass by distinguished artist and previous President of the Royal Ulster Academy (RUA).

Although perhaps better known for his wildlife painting, with which he has achieved global success, Friers has chosen to focus upon portraiture which features 18 major portraits of music makers and significant cultural figures from across the Island of Ireland, including Andy Irvine, Paul Brady, Terri Hooley, Henry McCullough, Dave Fanning and many more including some from the North West.

“The series celebrates the music community in all its various areas as well as having some integrity in each individual piece,” he says. “Although painting is relatively traditional in composition and execution, I have avoided any structure in the background , making no effort to create allegory, symbolism or metaphor so that all are presented simply as themselves.” The exhibition opened on Thursday, October 1 and continues until November 7. All work is for sale. To purchase work contact the council’s Arts Officer at diane.henshaw@fermanagh.gov.uk or telephone 0300 30301 777.

This exhibition has been curated by local artist or arts activist, Noelle McAlinden in association with Fermanagh Arts Festival / F-Live 2015 and The Higher Bridges Gallery.