Author: whatsonni

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Fitzwilliam Hotel, County Antrim

Fancy some five-star pampering in the heart of Belfast? This hotel is perfectly placed to allow you explore the city’s shopping and nightlife. Located next door to the Grand Opera House, this hotel is chic and contemporary with helpful staff offering a warm welcome. Enjoy a delicious two-course meal and a luxurious overnight stay, with a hearty breakfast in the morning, from £230 per room B&B based on two people sharing. Visit www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.com for more information.

An Creagán, County Tyrone

Set in the breath-taking surroundings of the Sperrins, between Omagh and Cookstown, this centre offers a range a of self-catering cottages. All accommodation is four-star, built in a traditional style with all the cosy comforts you could wish for. The two bed and three bed cottages are all wheelchair accessible. Indulge in seasonal ingredients and local produce at the onsite restaurant with a delicious lunch or light snack. The centre is a great base to explore this area’s charms from the nearby Beaghmore Stone Circle or artist Thomas Dambo’s three wooden giants on the Sperrin Sculpture Trail. A one bed cottage is £340 for two nights at the weekend or the same price for three nights midweek. Prices start fom £440 for a three-bed cottage. Visit https://ancreagan.com for more information.

Number 1 Barn Lane, County Londonderry

This stunning three-bedroomed property is set in an area of outstanding beauty, overlooking Lough Foyle and the Donegal Hills with uninterrupted views of the Sperrins. This contemporary property, designed by award winning architects, boasts three double bedrooms and three bathrooms over two floors. The master bedroom has a four-poster bed and ensuite. The ground floor is open plan with a cosy log burner, a well-equipped kitchen, all with fabulous views of the open countryside. A wonderful place to relax and unwind. The Hotbox Sauna has just opened its rural retreat a one-minute walk away! Enjoy a two-night spring stay from £42 pp per night based on six people sharing. Visit https://drumagosker.co.uk for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Art Exhibition That Challenges Misconceptions About Dementia Opens In Newtownards

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The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, officially opened Dementia NI’s unique art exhibition at Ards Art Centre last week.

The Real Lives: The Art Of Living With Dementia exhibition is free to visit and runs until 24 February. It explores what it is like living with dementia in Northern Ireland while challenging widespread stigma about the condition.

Mayor Jennifer Gilmour with exhibitor and Dementia NI member, Allison Batchelor.Image: Graham Baalham-Curry

The exhibition features pieces created by members of the Dementia NI charity, all of whom live with a diagnosis of dementia, and showcases captivating photography and striking patchwork quilts.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, said:

“There are over 20,000 people living with dementia across Northern Ireland, many of whom live in our Borough, and Age UK’s statistics suggest this could rise to 60,000 by 2050. Years of stigma and misunderstanding have led to common misconceptions about what it means to live with dementia but this exhibition sets out to challenge these misconceptions, transforming how people view the condition and starting conversations through the medium of art.”

The exhibition features patchwork quilts created during an online project organised by Dementia NI and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, to help local people with dementia stay active during lockdown. Working with Arts Council art tutors, Dementia NI members were encouraged to make their own heirloom quilts which tell the story of their lives.

Dementia NI member, Allison Batchelor, is exhibiting her patchwork quilt which she created to represent what is important in her life. She said:

“When you receive a diagnosis of dementia you believe your life is over and that it’s impossible to learn new skills. However, this isn’t the case. During lockdown, Dementia NI developed this amazing art project which was run via Zoom. Through this we learnt many new skills and produced first class artwork. We are challenging the public’s perception of what dementia looks like and are constantly endeavouring to break down stigma and barriers. This art project was so enjoyable, and I am very glad to have been involved.”

Claire-Rose Canavan, Dementia NI Empowerment Facilitator, said:

“This exhibition is really special to our members, and we are so thrilled they permitted us share it with the public. It shares a message of hope that many people with dementia are still able to enjoy life in the same way as before their diagnosis and live well with dementia. We warmly invite everyone to come along and view it for themselves.”

The free-to-attend exhibition is open Tuesdays to Fridays (10am – 4pm) and Saturdays (10am – 1pm) until 24 February. For more information, visit andculture.org.uk.

Jacqueline from whatsonni.com shares her pick of what’s on this weekend across NI!

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Antrim

ABBA starring Bjorn Identity at the Ballygally Castle Hotel. Back due to popular demand!  Join us for the most popular night out with all your favourite sing-a-long ABBA songs. Doors open from 7.30pm

Show begins at 9pm.

Find out more HERE

Armagh

Opera and Orchards at the Market Place Theatre. Ulster Touring Opera’s exceptional soloists will take you on a musical journey from ancient Carthage to the factories of Seville via a rather bohemian Parisian apartment.

Find out more HERE

Belfast

Meet at the Staircase for a special Valentine’s Afternoon Tea at Titanic Belfast!  Step back in time to a period of luxury, elegance and 5-star service with Titanic Belfast’s Afternoon Tea. Set in the opulent surroundings of the Titanic Suite featuring the stunning Grand Staircase and live jazz music, it is an experience not to be missed!

Find out more HERE

Down

Treat that someone special to a romantic dinner or a day out with the girls at La Mon Hotel!

Find out what’s on offer HERE

Fermanagh

Cocktails & Coaching with Lisa McFarland, Charlie’s Bar. Whether you’re looking to re-ignite a spark, just out of a relationship or living your best single life, Lisa will be sharing her tips and tools to develop strong, healthy relationships. What better place to start than our relationship with ourselves!

Find out more HERE

Derry/Londonderry

Join The Evergladus for an amzing party night with a “love potion or Prosecco” drinks reception, 3 course dinner and live music.

This party is not just for couples but also for a great “Galentine’s” girls night out or with friends.

Find out more and book HERE

Tyrone

Come explore the wonderful world of Pancake Art at An Creagan!  Get creative with pancake batter in a raindow of colours.  Create your favourite characters and choose your favourite toppings.
Find out more and book HERE

James Huish & his band, an evening of Michael Buble Valentine’s Show!

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Join James Huish and his band for a romantic evening of swing and jazz this Valentine’s Day!

Songs from Sinatra, Michael Bublé, Dean Martin and Elvis Presley etc, in the new iconic Avenue Arts Centre on the Lisburn Road in Belfast. A beautiful building full of character, formerly an old church now transformed in to a stunning theatre space.

Immerse yourself in the timeless melodies and toe-tapping rhythms that defined an era. With his smooth and velvety voice, James and his 10 piece band will transport you back to the golden age of jazz, serenading you with soulful renditions of love songs that will make your heart flutter.

Whether you’re looking to impress your date or simply want to indulge in an enchanting musical experience, this concert is the perfect way to celebrate the most romantic day of the year. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening filled with passion, charm, and the irresistible magic of swing jazz. Book your tickets now and let James Huish and his band sweep you off your feet this Valentine’s Day!

Book your tickets now  at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/theavenueartscentre/t-jzmrnqo

Date:12th February 2024

Venue: The Avenue Arts Centre. Belfast.

Time: 8.00pm

Running time approx 2 hours

John Steinbeck takes centre stage at Roe Valley Arts Centre this February

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Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre is delighted to partner again with the Steinbeck Festival in 2024 to host a captivating program of events that celebrate the legacy of John Steinbeck through art, music, storytelling, and spoken word.

The festival promises a wonderful blend of cultural experiences for attendees of all ages, inviting them to immerse themselves in the literary world of Steinbeck.

The Steinbeck Festival 2024 kicks off with two engaging exhibitions: a display of book covers created by local primary school students and The Dustbowl Photography exhibition, which this year explores the theme ‘People’.

The timeless appeal of John Steinbeck’s works and his profound impact on the world of arts and culture will also be celebrated with a diverse range of live events, bringing together literature, film, music, and community engagement.

Mark Carruthers will engage in a thought-provoking conversation on Nobel Peace Prize laureate John Hume, with former BBC Journalist, and author of John Hume – The Persuader, Stephen Walker (2 Feb). Then, the Swingtime Starlets will transport the audience to the golden era of the 40s and 50s with an exceptional night of music on 24th February.  Tickets for both these events can be booked at roevalleyarts.com

There will also be a number of free events, including a live link up with the National Steinbeck Center, Salinas, California where attendees will have the opportunity to view some of the centre’s East of Eden related articles. Following this Dr Linda McKeown (QUB) will discuss East of Eden in its social context and consider Steinbeck’s thinking behind writing the novel.

On 8th February, come along for a captivating evening of verbal art by local poets and storytellers. Then, award-winning Northern Ireland film producer and screenwriter, Greer Ellison will give an illustration talk on 22nd February, offering insights into his illustrious career, sharing clips from his latest film, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of film and media.  Meanwhile, the Steinbeck Cafe in Drumceatt Square will host a lively Book Club discussion focused on Cannery Row on 27th February.

Secondary school GCSE groups are invited to a special programme of exploration and learning, delving into the literary masterpiece Of Mice and Men. Following the discussion, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a screening of the 1992 film adaptation and an introduction to the live music of the era by Allan Nicholl (21 and 22 Feb).

All bookings for events can be made online at roevalleyarts.com or by calling the box office on 028 7776 0650. Book is essential for free events.

The Arts Centre galleries are open throughout the festival as follows:

  • Monday: CLOSED
  • Tuesday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Wednesday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Thursday: 9:30am – 5pm and 7pm – 9pm
  • Friday: 9:30am – 5pm
  • Saturday: 10am – 1pm

For further information visit www.roevalleyarts.com

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Dobbins Inn, County Antrim

This cosy Inn is one of the town’s oldest buildings. You can simply relax by the open log fire or explore the town’s Norman Castle that has dominated this part of Belfast Lough since the 12th century. There’s lots to do in the area, from exploring the Causeway Coast, visiting the waterfall at Glenoe, or taking a walk to the Blackhead Lighthouse near Whitehead. Great food and a warm welcome await in the quaint Landings Restaurant. Avail of an overnight stay and a one course meal, with a hearty breakfast the next morning from £50 pp. Visit https://dobbinsinn.co.uk for more information.

Walsh’s Hotel, County Derry~Londonderry

Nestled at the foot of the Sperrins in the town of Maghera, this hotel is a great base to explore the lovely scenery of Mid-Ulster and County Derry~Londonderry. The hotel is offering a Children’s Adventure Package where you can spend the day at the nearby Jungle NI watching your little treasures have the time of their lives at the Treetop Adventure before heading back to the cosy comfort of the hotel’s Helena’s Bistro, where the kids can eat free. Then enjoy a great family breakfast the next morning.  From £256 based on two adults and two children. Visit https://www.walshshotel.com for more information.

Lough Erne Resort, County Fermanagh

Escape to this five-star resort, located minutes from the island town of Enniskillen. Nestled on a 600-acre peninsula between Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, it has spectacular views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and The Faldo Course. This hotel has welcomed many a celebrity and world leader. Why not feel special and pamper yourself at The Thermal Suite and Infinity pool at the Thai Spa, complimentary for all hotel guests. Then tuck into a delicious meal at the Loughside Grill. There is a wonderful Irish breakfast to enjoy the next morning, paired with memorable views. You can stay in a lodge or suite as part of this Stay and Dine deal for £269 per room based on two people sharing (Sun- Thurs). Visit https://www.lougherneresort.com for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 29 January- 4 February

  1. Birdwatch Morning, Comber, County Down, 31 January. Join the experts at the Castle Espie Wetlands Centre on the banks of Strangford Lough. You will have the chance to take a closer look at the wonderful variety of birds across the reserve, which is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans on the island of Ireland. Everyone is welcome to join, no prior birdwatching knowledge required!
  1. Armagh Rhymers on Brigid’s Day, Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, County Derry~Londonderry, 1 February. This performance serves up an exciting mixture of music, song, poetry, storytelling and drama. Founded in the 1970’s, the rhymers hark back to ancient traditions where the kitchen floor was the stage. Their fabulous costumes and woven headdresses evoke the folklore of old Ireland. A fun day for the whole family.
  2. Winter Discovery Morning, Belfast, County Antrim, 2 February. Come and enjoy a seasonal walk amidst the splendour of the Lagan Valley Regional Park. These walks give you the opportunity for an informal but informative walk with the park’s rangers to learn about the wildlife and history of the area.
  1. Loughmacrory Lough, County Tyrone. Follow the shoreline of this serene lake. Wonderful flora and fauna abound, and gravel paths make this a very pleasant 2k stroll.  Keep your eyes peeled for a flash of electric blue, it could well be a kingfisher or just admire the swans and wild geese that visit.
  2. Imbolc, Celtic Mindfulness, Navan Centre, County Armagh, 3 February. This day retreat with Judith Greene and Karen Smyth celebrates the ancient Celtic festival which marks the beginning of Spring, falling at the halfway point between the Winter solstice and the Spring equinox. Historically, this festival was in honour of the pagan goddess, Brigid, who was adopted as a Christian saint. Connect with nature as it awakens from its winter slumber and get ready to welcome spring, refreshed and renewed.
  3. Belfast Bike Tours , Belfast, County Antrim, throughout February. Learn about the history, culture and architecture of Belfast in a fun way! Tour the city on comfortable, easy to pedal bikes taking in everything from the café culture vibe of the Cathedral Quarter to the street art, and peace walls. Visit the Titanic slipways and see why everyone is kissing the Big Fish. Two tours available daily, seven days a week. Includes helmet hire.
  4. Earth Yoga – In the Heart of The Marble Arch Cave, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, 4 February. This multi-sensory experience will take your yoga practice to a place it has never been, surrounded by the sights and sounds of mother earth, deep in the heart of the show cave, 50 metres underground! A unique way to unwind and relax body and mind in an hour experience that is suitable for all levels. The yoga space will be lit with lanterns creating a warm and inviting feeling. There are 154 steps to enter the cave, so dress in flat shoes and warm clothing and bring along your own yoga mat.
  5. Moneypenny’s Forge and Lockhouse, Craigavon, County Armagh, throughout February. Want to make the sparks fly? Well look no further than this wonderful historic forge to learn the traditional skills of blacksmithing! Located on the Newry Canal just outside Portadown, this beautiful location has classes to suit all abilities from the novice to the more advanced metalworker. Or you can visit our canal-themed museum next door in the Lockhouse, named after the Moneypenny family who looked after the lock from the early 1800s until its closure in the mid-20th century. Class sizes are small so check the website for booking.
  6. The Sperrin Sculpture Trail, County Tyrone. Behold the three giant sculptures by artist Thomas Dambo on the Sperrins Sculpture Trail, which showcase the geology, archaeology and heritage of the Sperrins. The giants represent the past, present and future. You will evoke the mystical, ancient history and beauty of the region. You will find Ceoldán, the Stargazer, at Davagh Forest kneeling on a newly constructed timber boardwalk. He is trying to capture the brilliance of the night sky, ‘The Seven Sisters’, in his spiral. You can also find Nowanois, translated as the storytellers at Glenelly Valley near Cranagh and Darach, the Guardian at Mullaghcarn Mountain. A fun day out for all!
  7. Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum, Lisburn, County Antrim. Fancy trying your hand at spinning or want to watch one of the experts do it? Come along to this centre which celebrates Northern Ireland’s historic role as the world leader in the manufacturer of linen. You can see the cloth being woven in daily demonstrations with one of the onsite weavers. There are also fabulous exhibits on display such as a  fragment of linen from Tutankhamun’s tomb, and a pair of stockings embroidered for Queen Victoria. Entry is free and there’s accessible parking beside the building, there’s also a range of lovely linen to buy in the shop.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

ARMAGH OBSERVATORY AND PLANETARIUM CELEBRATES NI SCIENCE FESTIVAL 2024 WITH SERIES OF EVENTS

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-Fun For All the Family this February at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium –

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium has announced a number of events to take place from Thursday 15th until Sunday 25th of February as part of NI Science Festival 2024.

These will include:

Experience the Calver Telescope tour, which will run at various times on Thursday 15th February. The event will see Armagh Observatory and Planetarium open its largest telescope dome to the public. The organisation has been conducting astronomical research for over 200 years, and these amazing telescopes are something to behold. Discover the difference between historic and modern telescopes during this unique event.

The Data Visualisation Laboratory (DVL) tour, for which public drop-in sessions will occur throughout Thursday 15th and Friday 16th of February. The Data Visualisation Lab brings the immersive experience of the planetarium dome to you, providing tools for the visualisation of three-dimensional data sets.

Check out the event’s public demonstrations, where you can talk with an astronomer while embarking on tours of the Cosmos using Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s panoramic display and the Digistar computer that it uses to generate the planetarium’s shows.

The Ultimate Bubble Show event, which runs at various times throughout Friday 16th and Saturday 17th February. Experience the best in soap bubble entertainment! Join Ray, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, and help him in his quest to complete the bubble game and create the ultimate square bubble.

This is a fast-paced, energetic show that’s full of surprises, with Ray using various different gases to create incredible bubble sculptures, effects and magical displays. Watch in amazement as he creates a volcano bubble, a soap bubble carousel, a bubble ghost and even a tornado inside a bubble!

This month in Astronomy: Director’s Cut dome show, which runs at 2pm on Friday 16th February. Join the Director of Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Professor Michael Burton, for a live planetarium show where he discusses the latest in astronomy.

Go on a guided tour of the Cosmos, taking in the planets, stars, and galaxies. Take a look at interesting objects in the night sky and examine the latest news in astronomy. The show will also feature a Question and Answer session, so feel free to ask Michael any burning questions.

Little Astronomers event, which runs at 10am on Friday 23rd February and is suitable for children under 5 years old. Transport your Little Astronomers into the exciting world of science!

Start with the toddler dome show, Astronaut George, followed by hands on activities and explore Armagh Observatory and Planetarium’s state of the art sensory room. During the full dome show, George investigates the best planet to live on and the dangers lurking on the surface of other planets in our Solar System. But will he find any alien friends to play with? Find out in this inter-planetary adventure!

Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon Music Dome Show, which runs on Saturday 24th February at 4pm. The album was 50 last year and has sold 50 million copies since its launch in 1973.

Celebrate the anniversary by experiencing the album set to stunning 360 degree visuals of our Solar System and beyond in this brand-new full dome show.

Our World from Space Saturday Club, which runs on Saturday 24th February at 10am and is perfect for Key Stage 2 children. Embark on a captivating journey through the wonders of our home planet, as seen from space, at this family friendly event.

Explore the vital roles of satellites in monitoring the Earth’s ever-changing surface and learn together with your child at this fun and interesting club!

CapCom Go! Dome Show, which runs on Sunday 25th February at 4pm. Translated into British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language, CapCom Go is an immersive, historical documentary that showcases the achievements of the Apollo programme and what it took to put the first human on the Moon.

It introduces a new generation to the immense challenges that were overcome and aims to inspire the STEM leaders of the future!

Sinead Mackle, Education and Outreach Manager at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, says, “At Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, we deliver internationally-recognised research in astronomy and related sciences and vibrant educational and outreach programmes for all ages.

“We have been engaging with the NI Science Festival since it began and it is a pleasure to take part again in 2024.

“This year’s programme of events will showcase some of our most popular dome shows and experiences, along with new events, such as our Calver Telescope tour and the This Month in Astronomy: Director’s Cut with Professor Michael Burton.

“We hope that these events will help to inspire the STEM leaders of tomorrow and look forward to welcoming visitors to this exciting, family friendly calendar of events.”

To book tickets for these events, visit: https://armaghobservatoryplanetarium.ticketsolve.com

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 22-28 January

  1. If Buildings Could Talk, Belfast, County Antrim, 27-28 January. This walking tour of Belfast City Centre will leave you laughing out loud, amazed and moved in equal measure! Barney Gribben’s fascinating and hugely entertaining jaunt is a tour de force of interesting facts and fabulous true stories delivered in a warm and engaging way. Guaranteed to make you look at the city anew!  A fun and informative two hours that will stay long in the memory.
  1. Storyweavers, Cultra, County Down, 27 January. Come along to the Ulster Folk Museum and take part in this special Irish-speaking children’s workshop for 5-10 year olds and listen to storytellers as they weave new life into old stories! Join Maire Zeph, the author of the Rita books, in this ancient Celtic celebration of the start of Spring, Imbolc.
  2. An Ode to Robert Burns, Omagh, County Tyrone, 27-28 January. Come along to the Ulster American Folk Park and celebrate Scotland’s famous bard, the man who gave the world Auld Lang Syne and popularised, at least once a year, the eating of haggis! Enjoy this “Great Chieftain o’ the pudding -race’ as part of a haggis pie and hear readings of some of his world-famous poetry. There’ll be theatrical performances of a ‘Not So Serious Burns’ by Bready Ulster-Scots, including a traditional bagpiper and highland dancers.
  1. New Year’s Ramble at the Giant’s Causeway, Bushmills, County Antrim, 27 January. Fancy meeting at first light for an early morning stroll along the Causeway cliffs? Appreciate this beautiful coastline in a new light! Venture off with Nature Engagement Officer, Dr Cliff Henry, and catch a glimpse of some of the wonderful Winter birdlife – flocks of skylarks, oystercatchers, meadow pipits, peregrines and maybe even a snow bunting or two; all singing their hearts out to serenade you on your adventure. After working up an appetite enjoy a delicious breakfast at the Causeway Hotel. Check website for availability.
  2. Eco Cleaning Workshop, Mount Stewart, County Down, 27 January. Why not start the new year a little cleaner and greener? Mrs R’ganics returns to Mount Stewart – join and discover how to tap into a cleaner and greener home environment. This workshop will teach you tricks on how to avoid waste and excessive plastic use by learning how to make your own economical and eco-friendly cleaning products. Check website for availability.
  3. John Hume, The Persuader: Stephen Walker in Conversation, Bellaghy, County Londonderry, 27 January. Join journalist Stephen Walker in the Seamus Heaney Homeplace for a discussion on his new biography of peacemaker, politician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, John Hume. Hume was a contemporary of fellow Nobel laureate at St Columb’s College in Derry. Based on 100 new interviews, including unpublished interviews with Hume, Stephen Walker’s timely and authoritative biography examines the career of a man once dubbed “Ireland’s Greatest”. A great opportunity to learn more on the fasinacting work of John Hume.
  4. Warrior Willow Workshop, Navan Centre, County Armagh, 27 January. Unleash your creative spirit and make your own organic sculpture from willow grown onsite at this ancient place. Learn age old skills with Heather McDermott using this multi-purpose sustainable material. Your finished piece will be approximately one metre tall! All materials included as well as tea, coffee and scones. Check website for availability.
  5. Joe Gregory exhibition, Omagh, County Tyrone, 22-27 January. Come along to the Strule Arts Centre for the final week of local artist Joe Gregory’s sole exhibition. In this showing ‘History Again’ he looks at the link with his work in Liverpool in the 80’s and 90’s where he studied the ever-changing cityscape and how ignored spaces are gradually regenerated. He revisits this theme of the abandoned and overlooked, where the lives of history are stamped on the structures that were once inhabited and loved. There are no figures or landscapes in his pieces, using oil on canvas or wooden board he seeks to give the pieces a look of being aged. He will talk about his work in a free event at the venue on the 26.
  6. Imbolc International Music Festival, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 28 January- 4 Febuaray . Based in Derry’s Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin, this eight-day celebration of music, arts, and culture features over 25 artists from as far afield as Canada, India, and South-Korea, amongst the island’s own outstanding musical stock. The festival combines the grassroots with the international, family-friendly festivities with their ever popular late night “Club Trad”, and most importantly, provides a platform for artists to experiment.
  7. Florence Court, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh. Located around eight miles from Enniskillen, Florence Court is one of the most beautiful Georgian houses in Ulster, nestled against the wild mountain backdrop of Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You can enjoy glorious walks around the grounds which include a pretty walled garden, holiday cottage, sawmill and ice-house. In the gardens you will find the famous Florence Court Yew – reputedly the ‘parent’ of all Irish yew trees.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Ards Arts Centre To Open New Exhibitions for February

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Ards Arts Centre in Newtownards will welcome two new art exhibitions for the month of February: Internal Space, a joint exhibition by Ned Jackson Smyth and Helen Bradbury and Real Lives: The Art of Living with Dementia, a Community Exhibition by Dementia NI.

Visual artists Ned Jackson Smyth (sculptor) and Helen Bradbury (painter) come together in the exhibition ‘Internal Space’ to share the work they have created over the past year which links their personal thinking and perspective in response to the external physical world.

The exhibition, which will show in Ards Arts Centre’s Georgian Gallery, will feature painting, sculpture and film that give the viewer an insight into the thinking of both artists and the inspiration drawn from the world around them.

Curated by Dementia NI, Northern Ireland’s leading charity for people in the early to middle stages of dementia, ‘Real Lives: The Art of Living with Dementia’ will include thought-provoking photography and patchwork quilts created by Dementia NI members, all of who live with a diagnosis of dementia.

Challenging some misconceptions about dementia, the exhibition will share a message of hope that many people with dementia are still able to enjoy life in the same way as before their diagnosis and live well with dementia. This exhibition will be on display in the Sunburst Gallery.

Both exhibitions open on Thursday 1 February and run until Saturday 24 February.  Admission is free during gallery opening hours.

All are welcome to attend a preview event in Ards Arts Centre on Thursday 1 February at 7pm.

For more information visit; www.andculture.org.uk

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