Gifts From Nature – exhibition at the Alley

DONEGAL artist Bernadette McCafferty launched her first exhibition at the Alley Theatre, entitled ‘Gifts From Nature’.

Bernadette has been painting many years and her art reflects the world around her. Speaking at the launch of her exhibition, she said she was delighted to be displaying her art at the beautiful Alley space.

“Art is a wonderful medium as an expression of emotions,” she remarked. “For me, it is an expression of the soul – something that makes me feel the interconnection between the land, sky and sea in an authentic way; the betwixt and between worlds and realm of endless possibilities and interpretation of what I see and feel in nature.”

Bernadette explained the inspiration behind this year’s exhibition and paid homage to the history of Ireland.

“I love the ancient history of Ireland and how Druids used this interconnectedness to navigate the world around them. The first recorded writings by them is Ogham on trees. I try to capture the essence of the image I see. The sky in particular draws me as it is full of endless possibilities. Using light and dark I like to create a style of art referred to as tonalism. Trees are nearly always a feature of my work as they are intrinsic to the landscape of the world.”

Bernadette went on to explain how she considers the land, sea and sky spiritual realms, with the outcome dependent on which medium she decides to use.

“I work with oil, watercolour, gouache and acrylics. Each brings their own unique flavour to the finished piece of art. I create still life and portraits along with my first passion which is land/sky/waterscapes.”

‘Gifts From Nature’ is showing until March 16 with all paintings available to purchase.

For more information visit www.alley-theatre.com or call 028 71 384444.