The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Art enlivens the lightkeeper’s house
FRIDAY, July 20, saw the first ever art exhibition in the lightkeepers’ house.
Having just restored a second room in the lighthouse, the management intend running a weekly exhibition of art, sound and photography pop-ups.
The first ever exhibition comes from Patricia Yaffe. Based on the foothills of Dublin, Patricia, like so many artists before her, became particularly fond of the ambience of Valentia and has chosen the newly opened gallery to exhibit her collection.
Patricia is a clinical psychologist and works with her art to connect with those who experience depression. This exhibition is based on the work of past masters ,including Vincent Van Gogh, Gauguin, Renoir, Picasso and, most recently, her interpretations of the Celtic women of mythology.
Her work brings a terrific splash of colour to the walls of the Valentia Lighthouse, and she hopes it will engage and inspire its many visitors
Whilst the lighthouse may not seem the most obvious place to host an exhibition, this new venture is already proving a big success with visitors, and it also adds yet another dimension to this wonderful place.
Lighthouse Manager Wendy Blemings stated: “So much work has gone into the restoration of the Lightkeeper’s house here. We really just wanted to open our doors to the widest possible range of exhibits and so add to the experience of the visitors. Art, music and photograph, y alongside the marine-themed exhibits, enhance our offer and create the opportunity for those with artistic inclinations to have a moment to pause and enjoy. We will be hosting further exhibitions until the end of August and really hope that the locations and installations prove inspirational to others.
“Valentia Lighthouse is open daily from 10.30am to 6pm, and in addition to a wide range of exhibits, we have a lovely café serving hot beverages and pastries. If you are interested in exhibiting in the lighthouse, you will be more than welcome.”
If interested, please contact Wendy at wendyvalentialighthousemanager@gmail,com.