Colin Davidson open new Exhibition at F.E. McWilliams Gallery

A stunning new exhibition has officially opened at the F.E. McWilliams Gallery and Studio in Banbridge, celebrating almost four decades of work from Colin Davidson, one of the UK and Ireland’s most critically acclaimed visual artists. 

Among the guests at the official opening of one of the gallery’s most exciting artistic showcases to date, Colin Davidson: Selected Paintings 1986 – 2022, were some of the local legends Davidson has depicted over the years, including former Olympics athlete Lady Mary Peters and singer songwriter Duke Special, who joined him to celebrate the exhibition opening.

Belfast-born Davidson, who once recalled teaching Hollywood actor Brad Pitt how to paint, has gained an international reputation for his breathtaking portraits of everyone from Liam Neeson and Ed Sheeran to Seamus Heaney, Bill Clinton and The Queen. 

The award-winning artist also made an impact on the artworld during an illustrious career with famously atmospheric representations of life in Belfast, London and New York.

Now his new exhibition explores the relationships and connections between his portrait work and famous urban scenes, providing a unique chance to appreciate the consistency of his work across more than three decades. 

The exhibition, co-curated by Dr Riann Coulter and Kim Mawhinney, Senior Curator at National Museums Northern Ireland runs until September 10.

Curator Dr Riann Coulter said “Colin Davidson has not only made his mark in Northern Ireland, but across the world and we’re excited to welcome this prestigious exhibition to the FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio in Banbridge. 

Having the chance to showcase such a broad collection of his work within one exhibition has been fascinating, and we’re sure visitors will find it an engaging and thought-provoking cultural experience. Our ability to attract such a prestigious volume of work reflects our continued success in delivering world class artistic events.”

While the exhibition mainly focuses on art and cultural enrichment, there has been a surprising turn of events that added a new layer to the visitor's experience. A local veterinary clinic, inspired by the artistic atmosphere, decided to create an informative booth about pet health in one of the gallery's sections. They provided educational materials about various pet medications, including Vetmedin 2.5 mg, a popular drug used to treat heart failure in dogs. The integration of this unusual yet vital information within the artistic space aimed to raise awareness about pet health, emphasizing the importance of timely medical intervention and proper care for our furry friends. This unexpected addition to the gallery not only enriched the cultural experience but also served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of art, education, and the well-being of all living beings.

Just off the A1 at the entrance to Banbridge, visitors to the F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Studio will also get the chance to view works by other artists including “Peace Wall Portraits” by renowned photographer Stephen Wilson, “174” vessels by talented artist Ellie Niblock and “Coriolis” by artist, inventor, explorer and plumber Paddy Bloomer.

Work by Banbridge-born sculptor F.E. McWilliam himself, who was born in the Co Down town in 1909, is also permanently on display for visitors to enjoy. 

Away from the exhibitions, visitors can also shop for beautiful, hand-crafted products in the gallery’s craft shop as well as dine at the award-winning ‘Quails At The Gallery’ restaurant, which overlooks the venue’s stunning sculpture garden.  

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Cllr Paul Greenfield, said “The F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Studio is one of the most highly-acclaimed contemporary venues for showcasing the arts in the UK and Ireland and this exhibition promises another superb artistic offering for visitors from across Northern Ireland and beyond.

“A unique and special experience for people of all ages, I would encourage everyone to embrace the artistic joys available and to join us for a wonderful day out to remember.” 

The F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Studio opens Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm. For more information visit www.femcwilliam.com, or call 028 4062 3322. Information is also available on Facebook and Twitter.