Artist and businesswoman Rita Oates opens the doors to Anam Gallery in July, with an inaugural exhibition featuring works from local street artist and activist, Joe Caslin and fashion designer and sculptor Una Burke, in addition to Oates’ own collection.
Located in the former coach house at Main Street, the gallery serves to unite the commercial, historic and creative spaces in Roscommon and wider regions. Combined with the upcoming Boyle Arts Festival, and events and exhibits in King House, this Hidden Heartlands gem is sure to entice arts and cultural enthusiasts from all over the country, throughout the Summer.
Joe Caslin is best known for his beautifully rendered pencil drawings which manifest as towering pieces of street art, such as the prominent Marriage Equality mural at the junction of Dame St and Georges St in Dublin. As an artist, teacher and activist, Caslin’s highly accessible work engages directly with the social issues of modern Ireland.
Una Burke founded her eponymous art and fashion brand in 2010, and this exhibition will feature leather pieces worn by Cindy Crawford in Taylor Swift’s Bad Blood video, Jennifer Lawrence in the Hunger Games movies, Michelle Yeoh in Star Trek and global sensation Rihanna.
Rita Oates collection combines images with messages of hope and encouragement that are positive, meaningful and thought-provoking, resulting in a collection of designer scarves, framed prints, greeting cards and stationery. Oates work is inspired by nature, kindness and the power of the human spirit.
Oates’ long-term aim for the Anam Gallery is to become a new home for creative talent in Ireland, as well as to provide a space for young artists to showcase their work, with a planned annual youth exhibition.
The Anam Gallery Opening Exhibition is supported by the Roscommon County Council Creative Ireland Programme 2023-2027 and runs from 8th July to 2nd September. All visitors are welcome.
