On Friday, 3rd August three exhibitions were opened in Oriel Q Gallery, Narberth.

‘Thaw’ - new paintings by the esteemed Irish artist Eamon Colman who is one of 25 people recognised by the Irish Arts Council and supported by the Aosdana scheme which helps with a financial grant that allows artists to develop their work. Eamon created this new body of work during the Winter of heavy snowfalls and gradual thaw. He is a story teller and a colourist, and the assimilation of his surroundings and the emotions and personal references make up the compositions of these wonderful paintings. He uses collage, watercolour and gouache to create these images, with lyrical titles leading you in to the stories. The paintings are displayed in acrylic boxes which add to the feeling that these are precious artefacts, suspended in time. Oriel Q provides a wonderful setting for this exhibition which would shine in New York, London or any major city, and the fact that we are so fortunate to have it here in rural Pembrokeshire is indeed a privilege not to be missed.

In Oriel Fach, the small room off the main gallery is another delight. Leigh Sinclair has created six witty images using monoprint and paint based on the theme of figures and plants in and by the pool. Acknowledging Matisse and Picasso’s influence, Leigh has used line, pattern and flattened colour to create semi abstract compositions.

On the stairs leading up to the galleries (where you can also view some work from the Summer Open in the second Oriel Fach,) is a collection of photographs by Georgina Hughes. ‘Memento Mori’ ;- still life photographs with selected objects carefully arranged to capture a moment in time and beautifully lit hints at poignant stories with hidden meanings and echoes the same atmosphere found in Dutch still life paintings.

Oriel Q is a jewel not to be missed in this vibrant town of Narberth and the exhibitions are open from Wednesday to Saturday 10am - 5pm until September 15th.

See the website www.orielqnarberth.com contact Lynne Crompton on 01834869454 or email info@orielqnarberth.com