Broken to Beautiful and following the light art exhibition

“I PAINT to follow light,” begins Ger Hughes, who, along with his friend Sandy Williamson, launched an art exhibition in Ballyroan Library in Rathfarnham on July 8.

When asked about what inspired this exhibition, Sandy replies, “Many people are going through difficult times, and my theme of ‘broken to beautiful’ is my way of inspiring us all to have hope.”

The idea came from Ger taking comfort in street lighting when he moved into the city for the first time, from a “much more rural environment.”.

At a time of significant change in his life, he felt less alone and uncertain.

Meanwhile, Sandy identifies ‘Broken to Beautiful’ as a theme that resonates deeply with her, emphasising that despite heartbreak and sorrow, there is always something to be grateful for and beauty to discover if one seeks it.

They note that a challenge in the organisation process is the vastness of the space, making it difficult to fill even half of it.

Some of the paintings also require a lot of time, as based on the idea for them, they may need many layers or precision.

This is the artists’ first large-scale exhibition, and their main challenge is filling the space while keeping each side cohesive.

They also had to ensure they contrasted well and complemented each other, as they both have differing art styles.

When asked if it is nerve-wracking putting their own work on display, Ger responds, “very much so,” while Sandy points out, “it’s always a bit vulnerable putting your art up.”

Ger continues by remarking that this exhibition represented “more of a leap” than mere baby steps, but he believes it was “absolutely worth taking”.

Sandy then comments, “the amazing response from all who came has been so encouraging for both of us!”

Regarding what is next, Ger will be exhibiting at Stephen’s Green People’s Art in August and September.

Sandy will also be exhibiting at Art Source in the RDS in November for the first time.

They would like to thank Ballyroan Library, particularly Emma Edwards, their partners, the “great network” of family and friends they have and all who came to support them on the launch night.

The exhibition is available to view in Ballyroan Library until July 25; be sure to check it out!