Walls on Water,’ a solo exhibition by Royal Ulster Academy (RUA) artist Paul Walls, launched in Waterways Ireland last Friday night (October 12). The exhibition features 27 stunning oil paintings inspired by Paul’s impressions of the Fermanagh Waterways.

The exhibition was officially launched by Mavis Thompson and Julian Friers, both internationally renowned fellow artists of RUA.

Belfast born artist Paul is an impasto painter who works mostly in oil paint. He is intrigued by the properties of his medium and the physical process of painting is his primary concern. He likes to work on a series of paintings, which enables him to explore his subject, evolving the composition and allowing the viewer a little insight into his creative journey.

Paul commented on the inspiration behind his work: “Marrying a Fermanagh woman has brought a familiarity with the Fermanagh Landscape, and its undulating light, colour and water. That has been the inspiration for this new body of work. Having walked around Killyfole on numerous occasions and enjoyed a boat trip with Pat Lunny, it was not hard putting this body of work together. The prevailing theme being the lakes and trying to capture a little of this county’s magic. I feel I’ve got to know Fermanagh a little better in the last 12 years and hopefully I’ve done it some justice.”

Fermanagh Live Arts Festival concluded on Saturday October 13 with an inspiring masterclass by the skilled artist.

The audience were thrilled to witness Paul recreate one of his masterpieces and discuss his unique approach to painting and what inspires him as an artist. ‘Walls on Water’ will continue until November 19 and is open daily.