4 October 2000

MINISTER OPENS JOINT ART EXHIBITION AT COOKSTOWN

The work of thirty nine contemporary artists went on display this evening at the opening of an exhibition of modern paintings at the Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre in Cookstown.

The exhibition, entitled Emerging Art II, was jointly opened by Mr Mark Durkan, MLA, Minister of Finance and Personnel, and Mr Barry Murphy, representing the Office of Public Works in the Republic.

It is the fifth joint exhibition and all the paintings, which are in public ownership, are normally hung in public buildings in Northern Ireland and the Republic.

The works on display are all varied in their use of paint and share a common bond in that the artists, irrespective of age, are in the process of developing their own individual style, figurative or abstract.

Speaking at the opening, Mr Durkan said, " Both my Department and the Office of Public Works have shown a strong commitment to supporting developing artists. Having viewed the exhibition tonight there are a number of paintings that I have my eye on which I would like to see hanging on my office wall but they may be already spoken for. I will have to see if I can negotiate an exchange.

"The overall standard is very high and I am pleased that these artists have been given the opportunity to have their work displayed for a wider audience to appreciate. The government art collections are in public ownership and it is only right that they be made available to public access and appreciation through such exhibitions.

"I welcome this cross-border opportunity for artistic co-operation and hope that it will act as an encouragement to inspire budding artists."

The exhibition continues at the Burnavon until 27 October.