KINGERLEE EXHIBIT LAUNCHED
THE historic old gaol building provides the perfect backdrop for one of the largest exhibitions ever held in Dundalk, John Kingerlee’s ‘Beyond the Beyonds.’
A retrospective of 167 paintings from 1962 to 2016, the extensive exhibition saw the 80 year old Irish artist, acclaimed internationally for his unique works, in Dundalk for the official launch.
‘We are delighted to welcome the stunning works of John Kingerlee,’ said Kay Webster, director of the Oriel Centre.
She explained that the sheer volume of paintings for the exhibition saw it taking over two weeks to put in place at the centre.
Although the building isn’t ordinarily used for art exhibitions, Kay added that they were happy to work with the world famous artist once the request was made.
Indeed, it was only after Kingerlee’s close friend, the art consultant Larry Powell, had attended a concert in the old gaol building last December that the venue was highlighted.
‘It’s just such an extraordinary venue,’ Larry told the Argus.
‘Once I made John aware of it, we knew it was the perfect place.
The title of the exhibition emerged from a phrase coined by Seamus Heaney when he came across John Kingerlee’s work a few years ago.
‘Heaney described it as being ‘ beyond the beyond’s’ which really is such a true reflection of what his paintings are.’
Renowned for his environmental awareness, Kinglerlee has incorporated a ‘waste free’ element into his works, using all the materials he has at hand to create truly individual masterpieces.
‘What makes his work so different is the complexity of each painting,’ said Larry.
‘At first look, you might think a painting represents one thing, but at closer look there might be a range of themes.
It’s what makes his work so fascinating, peeling back the layers.’
Each of the works is entirely unique, and bears the Kingerlee monogram, a lone man paddling a boat.
‘ That’s his trademark really, rowing his own boat, doing things his way.’
Although a quiet character who shuns the limelight, John Kingerlee has acquired a host of famous fans including U2’s Larry Mullen, former American President Bill Clinton, RTE’s Sean O’Rourke, and many collectors worldwide.
The exhibition is open daily from 9am to 6pm (except Saturday), and