Local art exhibition shows creativity,courage and positive painting
By Mary Dennehy
A GROUP of local people living with acquired brain injury are currently staging an art exhibition in the County Library, Tallaght, with a number of the paintings also appearing in a unique 2016 charity calendar.
More than 11 years ago, Kingswood resident Ignatius Gannon took up art after suffering a stroke at the age of 53, a positive turning point on his road to mental recovery.
Believing that art gave him back his confidence and self-worth, Ignatius set up an art class, with support from independent brain injury support and advocacy, Brí, for people with acquired brain injury in the County Library, Tallaght.
He told The Echo: “Art gave me a great sense that I could achieve again.
“After my stroke I couldn’t do the things I liked to do before, like playing golf, but art helped to restore my confidence and made me see that I can achieve.
“Art gave me back my soul and it built me up to try other things, alongside being very therapeutic.”
On Monday, the art group officially launched an exhibition in the County Library, Tallaght, which, running until this Friday (December 11), boasts more than 40 pieces of art – all done by people with acquired brain injury.
The art group has also produced a calendar in aid of Brí, which is currently on sale for €6 or two for €12.
“All of the funds go directly back in Brí to help the independent group support people with brain injury,” Ignatius said.
“It also raises awareness around brain injury and proves that people who have suffered a stroke or brain trauma are talented and creative and can achieve.”
The art group runs every Friday in the County Library at 2pm and new members and their families are always welcome.
For further information on the art group or the Brí support group in Tallaght call Ignatius on 087 2164260.
Ignatius can also be contacted for calendar sales.
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