Bellacorick: Impressions of a Place is the title of a new exhibition of drawing, painting, and photography by Betty Gannon, Michael Gannon, and Ian Wieczorek, on show at Áras Inis Gluaire, Belmullet, from Friday March 5 to Wednesday March 31. The exhibition is the result of authorised visits to the decommissioned power station during 2008 and 2009, and the three Mayo artists have created their own personal visual responses to the iconic building’s structure and former function.
Betty Gannon’s drawings explore the energy of the machinery at the heart of the former peat-fired power station. Michael Gannon’s photographs explore the shapes and patterns that embody both the construction and physical presence of the building. Ian Wieczorek’s paintings address the functionality of the building. The results are a record of a place that for many years was a significant presence, both physically and socio-historically, on the Bellacorick landscape.
All three artists have established artistic pedigrees. Betty Gannon has been included in many group shows including Claremorris Open Exhibition 2008 and the RDS Student Awards 2007. Her first solo show took place in the Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar, in August 2009. Recently enrolled as a fellow of the Irish Photographic Federation, prize-winning photographer Michael Gannon has been involved in many group shows, and has had two solo exhibitions to date. Ian Wieczorek has exhibited extensively in shows in Ireland, Northern Ireland, Germany, and China. His most recent solo show was in the Custom House in Westport last October.
Bellacorick: Impressions of a Place will be officially opened by Mayo poet Ger Reidy at Áras Inis Gluaire on Friday March 5 at 7.30pm. Admission is free, all are welcome. The exhibition runs until Wednesday March 31.
