Athy's work of art

Art is the desire of a person to express himself, to record the reactions of his personality to the world he lives in, so the saying goes. The Athy Arts Group, which has been running for over 30 years, is very much a cornerstone of the south Kildare town and its recent 33rd Annual Exhibition delivered the artistic goods once again.
“Firstly I want to thank members of the Athy Arts Group. Without them we would be nothing. And the people of Athy. Everyone in the town supports us. Every year they come in and view the work, it is always great and it gives a big boost to everyone,” said chairperson John Rainsford.
According to Mr Rainsford, unlike other art groups, there are no issues over any perceived ‘standards’ for art exhibited.
The Athy Art Group was formed to give all artists an opportunity to exhibit and it maintains this approach, regardless.
“We give all our members an equal opportunity to exhibit, regardless of whether they are a beginner, amateur artist or a seasoned professional artist. Every piece of art exhibited adds to the exhibition as a whole.”
The Athy Art Group was formed in 1971 and the first full-scale exhibition was mounted in 1979. Since then, Athy Art Group has been an open group, and its only stipulation being that new members are residents of Athy.
The group was formed over 40 years ago when an art competition brought likeminded people together who were looking for a better outlet for their art. John’s parents Liam and Fiona were among the founding members.
“They had such a good time, they wanted to put on an exhibition every year.”
All the exhibitions “blend into one at this point,” he jokes, recalling shows in CBS, Athy GAA hall and for the past few years the Church of Ireland Parish Centre.
This 33rd exhibition this year encompassed more than 200 pieces of art from over 70 members.
“We had paintings, sculptures, wood crafts, hand-blown glass pieces. It is a great outlet for people and our reputation is excellent.
“We had a packed hall on opening night and a good turnout of local people.”
Some people look at art with an eye to buy, most to soak up the beauty, colours and ideas of the work without wrestling with their wallet. But what drives an artist to exhibit?
“With any artists we do have sales, but primarily an exhibition of work is to allow people to see the art. We have people here painting for more than 20 years, they are classed as amateur but they are anything but.
“There is no judging mechanism, not at all. Art is so subjective, what one person likes may not be what another person likes. Every piece of art is equal.”
If you are live in Athy or the surrounding area becoming a member of the Athy Art Group is a must. The fee is only E20 and E10 for OAP/unwaged/students.


Leinster Leader 21/6/11