McWilliam sculptures on show at Down County Museum

Down County Museum has launched a new exhibition celebrating the life and work of sculptor F.E. McWilliam, offering visitors the chance to view a selection of his sculptures and studies close to home. The F.E. McWilliam: A County Down Legacy exhibition draws on the collection of the F.E. McWilliam Gallery & Studio in Banbridge and runs at Downpatrick Museum until 29 August.

Born in Banbridge in 1902, McWilliam went on to become one of Ireland's most celebrated artists, with his work now held in major international collections including the Tate Museum in London and New York's Museum of Modern Art. He studied painting at Belfast School of Art and at the Slade School of Fine Art in London between 1928 and 1931, before turning to sculpture in the early 1930s. His earliest wood carvings were influenced by archaic and primitive art, particularly African sculpture.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna, welcomed the exhibition. "The remarkable exhibition provides an opportunity to sample some of F E McWilliam's outstanding work and we are delighted to have the opportunity to highlight and celebrate it. McWilliam achieved international acclaim through his pioneering sculpture, with his works now held in some of the world's most prestigious collections."

Cllr Hanna added that the exhibition offered a valuable opportunity for local people to engage with McWilliam's work. "The Downpatrick exhibition provides a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to experience a selection of his sculptures and studies close to home, gaining an insight into the creativity, innovation and artistic vision that defined his career."

Cllr Hanna is encouraging people to take the opportunity to visit the exhibition and engage with the work of the world-renowned artist, whose legacy continues to inspire.

Down County Museum is open from noon until 4pm on Mondays and from 10am until 4.30pm from Tuesday to Saturday.