MICHAEL V. O REAGAN TO EXHIBIT AT SAMHLAIOCHT ART GALLERY ON THURSDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

Kerry Native O' Reagan's Art Demonstrates Empathy and Appreciation For The Beautiful Kerry Countryside

Tralee - An exhibition of work entitled 'About Time' by artist Michael O' Regan goes on display in the new Samhlaíocht Gallery on Thursday 8th February. The collection of paintings and sketches by Tralee born artist Michael V. O' Regan demonstrates the empathy and appreciation which he feels for the woodlands and countryside of his native Kerry.

"We're absolutely delighted to have an artist of Michael's talent and ability opening an exhibition at the Samhlaiocht Art Gallery," said Jason O' Mahony, Artistic Director of Samhlaiocht. "His paintings and sketches vividly capture the indescribable beauty of Kerry and you're left with a sense of awe having looked at them."

Michael is self taught and has been painting part time for many years. Demand for his work is such that he has recently begun working as a full time artist. The diversity and vibrancy in the natural beauty of the Kerry woodlands are a constant source of inspiration. Michael's preferred medium for his painting is oils and he also works in pen and pencil. His detailed sketches of old farm buildings and their environs record a traditional way of life which will soon be just a memory.

"I have entitled this exhibition 'About Time' because many of the paintings and sketches in it evoke a way of life for which I feel a great empathy and which I want to record in my work," said Michael, a native of Rock Street in Tralee. "The title also reflects the fact that I have now decided to apply myself full time to my art. I'm thankful to Samhlaiocht for giving me this great opportunity to put on a solo exhibition of my work."

"It's wonderful to have an artist of Michael's stature coming to the Samhlaiocht Gallery," added Trish Thompson, Curator Samhlaiocht Gallery, "this is our first exhibition in our new gallery and when I saw Michael's work I just fell in love with it and had to bring him to Samhlaiocht."

The Samhlaiocht Gallery is located in the old Presbytery next to St. John's Parish Church in the centre of Tralee on Lower Castle Street. 'About Time' opens on Thursday 8th February at 7.00pm

Opening times at the Gallery are Mon to Thurs 9.00am to 6.00pm and Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm. Everyone is welcome.