Dungannon artist’s exhibition to raise funds for people of U

A DUNGANNON artist will launch a new exhibition of her work next week in an effort to raise funds for Ukraine.

Elizabeth McGrath said she felt compelled to do something to help the millions of people who have been forced to flee from their home as the Russian bombardment continues.

Next Friday evening Elizabeth will welcome guests to Ranfurly House in Dungannon to view her work.

“I am hoping that I can raise some money from sales of my work and even if people don’t buy a painting they will still be able to make a donation to this cause,” she said.

“After what we have seen over the last few weeks, it’s very clear that the people Ukraine need a lot of help. It’s hard to imagine what they are going through at this time. Some of these people have lost everything, and I am very disappointed by how slow the British Government have been to offer help.

“That’s why I have decided to do this. I feel that we all should be doing something in some small way and hopefully my exhibition can raise some funds.”

Although she has lived in London for many years, Elizabeth is a frequent visitor to her hometown of Dungannon.

She completed her degree at the Ulster University, Art College (now Belfast School of Art) specialising in fashion and textiles and has worked as a designer for the major high street brands for over 20 years.

Explaining the process and inspiration behind her attractive watercolours, she said, “My main focus is on landscapes and nature.

“Nature and the environment is so just beautiful, and there are so many landscapes to discover and paint. Painting is almost like keeping a diary for me.

“When I create a painting, it’s like a record of what I remember and how a place can make you feel. Landscapes are my biggest passion.”

Next Friday (April 1) at 6pm, Elizabeth will be joined by guests Alison Chestnutt, the Captain of Dungannon Golf Club and the Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Cllr Paul McClean for the launch of her exhibition at Ranfurly House.

Elizabeth added, “I am really looking forward to the exhibition and meeting the guests and hopefully plenty of people will come along and help raise some money for the people of Ukraine.”