On The Spot with… Briege McClean

Briege McClean of Beragh is a creative writer and brilliant artist, who uses her talents to improve the lives and mental wellbeing of all who cross her path. Recently Briege, who now lives in Omagh, facilitated 21 online writing workshops with the Women’s Aid Groups to help victims of domestic abuse powerfully tell their stories of survival through poetry and haikus. She further hosted a four-week Christmas craft workshop in Plumbridge to help bring the magic of the festive season to locals through art works, colour, and fabulous paintings; and bestowed her tutelage to the Beragh Art Group for six weeks to help promote friendship and togetherness among its members.

If you could be invisible for a day, what would you do?

I would watch Colin Davidson paint a portrait for his ‘Silent Witness’ exhibition, currently on show at the Ulster Museum, Belfast. His abstract style of painting is so powerful.

What is your least appealing habit?

My least appealing habit is not one I wish to share here!

What is your greatest trait?

My greatest trait, I have been told, is my ability to communicate well in a variety of ways and with diverse groups. Listening is to the other person is key.

If you could ask God one question, what would it be?

I came into this world as an individual, needing parental guidance and care until I was an adult.

Then, I acted and thought on my own two feet. So, I wouldn’t ask God or any other being. I would work it out for myself, eventually.

Did you have a role model as a youth?

My role models throughout all of my life have been my parents, Paddy Joe and Annie McClean. I could write a book!

How would you describe Tyrone to someone who has never been here before?

Tyrone has gentle rolling fields with lots of cows and sheep.

I have travelled throughout the world and to me, Tyrone has a unique beauty all of its own.

Photogenic and painterly.

The natives are friendly enough too!

What are you watching on television?

I watch Netflix more than TV these days, as the news is just too dire!

Currently, I am re-watching ‘Taboo’ and ‘Peaky Blinders’. The acting is top class, as is the design. The visuals are also fantastic.

Tell us a song that reminds you of your childhood.

‘Little Arrows’ by Leapy Lee, released in 1968.

Who is your favourite musician?

Van Morrison.

What is your favourite film?

‘Cinema Paradiso’.

What is your favourite memory?

Santa Claus carrying a big sack of toys as he walked through our front door, and me sitting at the top of the stairs watching, afraid to move in case he saw me!

And your saddest?

The sudden death of my lovely brother, Eamon.

What makes you angry?

When other drivers mess up, I am liable to swear and shout… All from the safety of my own car, I hasten to add!

Has there been a defining moment in your life that has got you to where you are today?

That’s a tough one. There have been many defining moments.

One thing I have learned, though, is that it’s okay to make mistakes, so long as you learn from them.

What is the most embarrassing thing you have done?

My most embarrassing moment was when I had to be taken by ambulance out of a yoga class, and stay overnight in our own Tyrone County Hospital.

What is your most treasured possession?

My most treasured possession is my home where I am happy, relaxed and spoiled by my lovely hubby, Martin.

Do you have a catchphrase?

Not that I know of.

What’s your tipple?

The occasional glass of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Who would play you in a film of your life?

Kerry Fox, an actress from New Zealand.

What has been your greatest achievement?

Marrying my husband.

What is your life’s motto (or favourite quote)?

“Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself, in your way of thinking,” from my dad.

What song would you like played at your funeral?

I will leave decision that up to others.