Art exhibition shows community’s strong links with the Rising
By Mary Dennehy
STRONG links with the Easter Rising in the community are epitomised by an art exhibition currently on display at Ballyfermot Library.
Artist John Devoy, launched his exhibition last month, in honour of the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising. John’s grand-uncle was John Devoy, Irish rebel leader and one of the few people to have played a leading role in the 1867 rebellion, the 1916 Rising, and the War of Independence (1919-1921).
John the artist, works mainly in pen and ink with pencil and charcoal. He also works in other mediums including oils, water colours, pastels and has sculptured in clay, plaster and wood.
John grew up on Landen Road and went to De La Salle School, training as a painter/decorator before working in the family coal-delivery business, and turning his focus to art education in the early noughties.
He now lives in Cherry Orchard with his wife Tina and son John junior, and has exhibited in galleries around Dublin and Wicklow, and taught workshops and performed in a number of stage productions.
Speaking at the launch of John’s art exhibition, deputising for the Lord Mayor, Cllr Daithí Doolan said:
“The paintings here would be a credit to any artist. It is great to see a local artist taking art to this level. John comes from a proud tradition of republicanism. His grand-uncle was the great Fenian leader, John Devoy.
“The art will serve as a reminder to the younger generation of the great sacrifice made by the leaders of 1916. I would encourage everyone, young and old, to come on down and visit this exhibition.”
Ballyfermot Library will host the art exhibition until the end of April.
John’s uncle Eamon Devoy, General Secretary of the TEEU (electricians’ union), was also present for the launch.
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