New Moate art exhibition opens to local acclaim

Well known author and historian Vera Hughes officially opened the first solo art exhibition by Moate man Conor Jones on Friday last, to a fantastic reception and local acclaim in Tuar Ard. A large crowd turned out for the occasion of the launch of "Starting Over", a mix of 19 different works of art, mainly oils or acrylics on canvas, dealing with a variety of subject matter from the colourful and eye catching fantasy pieces to the more usual landscapes, all of which were created by the Ave Maria Park native over the last few months. 'It was very successful and there was a brilliant turnout on the night. I think everyone was very impressed and it will be open for viewing for anyone who missed it until March 27 next,' a clearly delighted Conor Jones, who is studying art part-time in Cluain Mhuire School of Art in Galway told the Westmeath Independent this week. 'I"d really like to thank Vera Hughes for opening the exhibition. She did a great job and gave a brilliant speech. It all went really well and of course, I"d like to thank my family and friends for coming to the exhibition and being so supportive,' he enthused, adding that a number of pieces were sold on the night. Entitled "Starting Over", the exhibition was so called because of the Moate man"s decision to return to art college last year, a new departure in his life after previously studying for two years in the Crawford College of Art in Cork. Well known in the local area, Conor has previously exhibited in a number of the Athlone Art Group exhibitions and is well known in local education circles for painting colourful murals in local schools including Tubber NS, Castledaly NS and in Moate. "Starting Over" runs daily in Tuar Ard, Moate until March 27 next. All pieces in the showcase are available for sale.