'Shifting Fields' - Press Release

'Shifting Fields',

An Exhibition of Original Artworks

by The NorthWest Artists Group.

At Markree Castle, Collooney, Co. Sligo

Opening October 24th 2009 at 7 pm.

Runs until November 22nd 2009.

The magnificent Markree Castle proves an appropriate location for the NorthWest Artists Group’s inaugural exhibition entitled ‘Shifting Fields’.

Set in 300 acres of stunning landscape and exquisite gardens, Markree is an inspirational setting, and small wonder that the castle steeped in history (since the 16th century) would also have a long association with the Arts. While staying as a guest Cecil Frances Alexander in 1848 wrote her most famous hymn ‘All things bright and beautiful’, having been deeply moved by her beautiful surroundings. William Butler Yeats also stayed as a guest here when the castle was still a private residence. In the recent past, Markree was popular as an artistic retreat, so against this background of artistry, it is only fitting that the castle should stage the first of what is hoped to be an annual series of art exhibitions featuring the most preeminent artists in and around Yeats country.

The NorthWest Artists Group was conceived at the beginning of this year, initially through a need to network and pull resources in the face of economic changes. The aim of the group was primarily to unite like-minded creative people together and provide a support network for all members and their individual art practices. The group wished to present an open platform for the promotion of original visual art from the North West of Ireland.

From there, it was a natural progression for the members to channel their creative energies into the community by organising public exhibitions. This they have succeeded in doing with 'Shifting Fields'.

The show will encompass over fifty original works by professional artists from all over the North West. Artists taking part are Marvin Baldemor, Stephen Bennett, Brigid Birney, Lisa Bond, Morgan Ferriter, Marina Hamilton, Geoff Kilpatrick, Maria Noonan-McDermott, Carmel O Callaghan, Cormac O Leary, Thomas Sheridan and Heidi Wickham.

The exhibition will be officially opened by Mr. Niall O Donnell, who is no stranger to the art world, having successfully ran the Cristeph Gallery, one of the oldest galleries in Donegal, for over two decades.

All the artists will be present on Opening night so why not take this opportunity to meet them in person and learn more about their work.

Come along and discover the wealth of talent in your own community. What better way to spend an Autumnal evening, than with the warmth of a real log fire, a glass of fine wine in hand and stimulating conversation against a backdrop of the finest contemporary art the NorthWest has to offer!

For more information contact:

maria@voiceboxartgallery.com 086 8107360

patricia@markreecastle.ie 071-9167800