Author: whatsonni

The two largest Irish sculptures to ever come to the art market are currently on display at international art and sculpture fair, Art and Soul at the Culloden Estate & Spa.

Larger than Life, from Patrick O’Reilly’s bear series, stands at an impressive 4m and is the largest single bronze sculpture by an Irish artist.

It is joined by Wind and Sea by Paddy Campbell, which reaches 4.3m. The pieces have a combined value of almost £800,000 and weigh around 2 tonnes each.

Art and Soul, curated by Gormleys, is the largest ever sculpture exhibition to take place on the island of Ireland and runs until September 10.

The free event will feature a major outdoor exhibition of 80 large sculptures and installations set throughout 12 acres of landscaped grounds.

More than 280 works by international artists alongside a host of artists from Northern Ireland including Stephen Johnston, Jane Rainey, Stephen Forbes and Ian Cumberland and leading Irish sculptors Patrick O’Reilly, Ian Pollock, Bob Quinn, Sandra Bell, Eamonn Ceannt, John Fitzgerald, Anthony Scott and Orla De Brí, are on display.

It also includes exhibitions by renowned Irish artists Martin Mooney, Maser, Peter Monaghan, Gordon Harris and Stephen Forbes.

The hotel’s interior is displaying 100 artworks by some of the world’s best-known artists, including Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Robert Indiana, Damien Hirst, Salvador Dali and Banksy.

“We are delighted to return this fair to the Culloden, where it first began,” said Oliver Gormley of Gormleys.

“It gives art lovers a unique opportunity to view these incredible works in the beautiful surroundings of the estate.”

All works will be for sale, with prices ranging from £1,000 to £425,000. Art and Soul 2023 will mark ten years of Gormleys events at the five-star Culloden.

“We have been hosting this internationally acclaimed event for over a decade, in partnership with Gormleys Fine Art, and are delighted to once again exhibit some of the most impressive pieces from world-renowned artists – as well as a host of local talent,” said Howard Hastings, chairman of Hastings Hotels.

“This edition of Art and Soul is a true exhibition of brilliance with works by celebrated artists.

Once again, we are supporting local artists across Northern Ireland too – and I’m proud to shine a light on the talent we have right on our doorstep, enabling them to share centre stage with some of the world’s most celebrated artists.”

To celebrate the event, the Culloden Estate and Spa is offering deals on breaks and dining, including an Art and Soul ‘Sip and See’ package from £390 per night for two, including accommodation, breakfast, champagne and canapés in the Bollinger champagne garden.

An afternoon tea among the artwork, Fancies with Fine Art, and an Art and Soul tasting menu in the Culloden’s fine dining restaurant Vespers are also offered by the five star estate.

During the event, there will be a programme of artists’ talks and daily guided tours.

Art and Soul is supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council and will be open to the public daily from 11am–7pm.

More information and accommodation offers can be found at www.cullodenestateandspa.com/art-and-soul

The Market Place Theatre in Armagh is kicking off its Autumn ’23 season with a superb range of entertainment, including two very different musical performances.

‘Here Come The Girls’ will feature eleven amazing diva tributes in one great show! Celebrating some of the finest female artists of all time, and featuring Cher, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Shania Twain, Annie Lennox, Gloria Estefan, Blondie, Katy Perry, Adele, Abba and Bananarama!

All of your favourite songs from your favourite female artists spanning five decades, in one spectacular, fun, fast paced, energetic show! ‘Here Come The Girls’ will be staged on Friday 8 September. Tickets are priced £22.50 each.

On the same evening, trio TRÚ will take to the stage. TRÚ draw their inspiration from the mythological trio of poet-musicians who were revered throughout the Celtic world. Michael Mormecha [percussion/vox], Zachary Trouton [guitars/vox] and Dónal Kearney [flute/vox] come from different musical backgrounds.

The three are children of the Peace Agreement in post-conflict Northern Ireland. From their British-Ukrainian, Ulster-Scots and Irish heritage, they have inherited an unusual and fruitful ethos based on respect and exploration.

Despite their individuality and an eclectic repertoire of influences from Clannad to Nine Inch Nails via Joni Mitchell and The Beatles, the trio’s collective chemistry is enchanting audiences with powerful storytelling and noteworthy songcraft.

These are stories told with a contemporary voice. There is nothing traditional about TRÚ except the songs themselves. Tickets for TRÚ can be booked for £15 each at www.visitarmagh.com/marketplacetheatre or through the Box Office on 03300 561 025.

Belmore Court and Motel, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh

Situated just a short walk from the town centre, this is a perfect base for exploring the wild beauty of the area or delving into its rich history. You are surrounded by beautiful lakes and remarkable parkland golf courses with the chance to visit the stunning Enniskillen Castle and breathtaking Marble Arch Caves. So why not enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and comfort? “The Sleepy Sunday” offer gives the option of a double bed and breakfast for one evening with a late checkout from £84pps. A two-course evening meal can be enjoyed at one of three nearby restaurants including the WV Bar, The Firehouse or Crowe’s Nest. This is the ultimate way to kick-start a new week.  Visit https://www.motel.co.uk/about-belmore-court-motel for more information.

Blackwell House, Scarva, Banbridge, County Down

Enjoy the ultimate relaxation and destress with this offer, available 30th August – 3rd September. You can enjoy a fabulous two-night dining retreat, perfect for those occasions when one night simply isn’t long enough! Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay in an individually designed luxury guest bedroom with comfortable super king-sized beds. Wake up to an award-winning breakfast each morning and indulge in a five-course taster menu on one evening of your choice, cooked with local produce. Designed to offer an authentic spa experience with a hot tub and sauna, this stay at Blackwell House is not to be missed. The Blue room and the Charleston Room are £425.00 per room for two nights. Visit https://blackwellhouse.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/

The Bushmills Salmon & Whiskey Festival will make a welcome return this autumn to celebrate the food, drink and local heritage of the area.

The village will host the festival on the weekend of 6^th – 8^th October, with lots to look forward to from a variety of fantastic food demonstrations, entertainment, live music, fishing activities and outdoor fun for children to enjoy. Foodies will be able to indulge locally produced food and drink, with a focus on salmon and whiskey.

Visitors will enjoy the local warm hospitality of the village at both the Bushmills Distillery and the Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market. The distillery will be open during the festival weekend, while the market will offer the opportunity to meet the makers behind the local produce, purchase unique handmade crafts and more.

Many independent businesses are involved to help make the festival a success, as well as involvement from local chefs, including Gary Stewart from Tartine at The Distillers Arms, who is an integral part of the weekend. Celebrity chef Paula McIntrye will be attending over the weekend and will be hosting several cookery demonstrations.

The festival is part funded by DAERA – NI Regional Food Programme, supported by the Bushmills Business Association.

Friday, October 6

A unique Coast & Countryside tour will be available throughout the day, exploring the bespoke offering Bushmills has to offer. This will be guided by the wonderful Wendy Gallagher (pre-booking required via causewaycoastfoodietours.com).

The highlight of Friday evening is the Bushmills ‘Dine around Town’, a unique food and drink experience created to indulge visitors with bespoke menus using the finest quality local produce. Musical performances in select venues will set the mood to kick-off the festival weekend. This is a ticketed event with limited places. More details on how to book will be announced later.

Saturday, October 7

Enjoy wandering around Bushmills and guide yourself through the Taste Trail, taking in the smells and flavours on offer. The many great restaurants and cafes in the village welcome you to try a variety of fresh local dishes embracing locally sourced ingredients, especially Salmon and/or Whiskey. Bushmills Distillery will be open during the weekend and hosting tours. The Visitor Information Centre will host a taste showcase of products from local artisan producers. Various establishments will also host music and entertainment into the evening.

Sunday, October 8

The Outdoor (STREAT) programme will consist of Naturally North Coast & Glens Artisan Market stalls, Bushmills Distillery whiskey tastings and tours, cookery demonstrations with celebrity chef Paula McIntyre and various talented local chefs, musical acts, and entertainers. There will also be a quiet time session for children with additional needs.

Main Street carpark will host an afternoon of live cookery demonstrations and the ‘Whiskey Hub’, a brand-new experience for the Whiskey enthusiast. A select range of local distilleries will host a taste and information session across Sunday afternoon, allowing visitors to taste and experience the fine whiskeys on offer in Northern Ireland.

With many ways to enjoy unique food experiences, this festival is not one to be missed!

DAERA has advised Council that, due to budget constraints, it is unable to open up the River Bush Salmon Station to the public as part of this year’s festival, as it had done in the past.

James Huish and his band are back in action and making their way to the Belfast music scene once again.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled about it! We’re super excited to announce that we will be bringing a brand new Big Band show to the fabulous Avenue Arts Centre on the Lisburn Road in Belfast. Mark your calendars for September 8 because this is a show you don’t want to miss!“

We want to extend a warm invitation to all the wonderful folks out there who have had the pleasure of seeing James and his band before, as well as those who simply adore the timeless music of the American songbook. Think Tony Bennett, Elvis Presley, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Frank Sinatra and of course Michael Bublé too. Send such as “The Way You Look Tonight”, “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”, “Home”, and “Always On My Mind”. “Fly Me To The Moon”. Feeling Good”, and many more. Get ready, because it’s going to be a truly magical evening that will leave you dancing all the way home. Come on down and join us for a night of pure musical bliss!

Now, let’s talk a bit about James and his incredible journey. Known as IRELANDS “King of Swing” and the UK’s Michael Bublé, James has been wowing audiences all across the UK, Ireland, and Europe and further afield with his mesmerizing vocals. But wait, there’s more! After taking a well-deserved break to create the James Huish Academy of Theatre Arts, he’s now ready to bring back the glory of his musical career to the world that existed before Covid. From sold-out shows at prestigious venues like the Grand Opera House and the Empire to performing at corporate events in glamorous cities like Dubai and London, James has truly made a name for himself. And now, it’s time to reignite that amazing sound once again!

If you’re as excited as we are and want to grab your tickets, please click HERE.  Be quick! This is an experience you won’t want to miss out on! See you there!

Announce World Tour Finale in Dublin & Belfast

15^th October 2023 – 3Arena

16^th October 2023 – The SSE Arena

17^th October 2023 – 3Arena

19^th October 2023 – 3Arena

Tickets On Sale Tuesday 29^th August at 9am

Arctic Monkeys will be returning to Dublin & Belfast in October for a series of arena dates to mark the end of their World Tour. The band are pleased to announce Miles Kane as Special Guest. These dates follow the cancellation of the band’s summer show at Dublin’s Marlay Park.

Previous ticket holders will be sent a unique access code and will be given 72-hour priority pre-sale access starting at 9am on Friday, Aug 25^th to purchase tickets. Only the same number of tickets, or less, purchased previously for Marlay Park will be available to purchase for these new dates.

All remaining tickets will be made available for sale at 9am on Tuesday, August 29^th.

In support of their seventh, Mercury shortlisted album, ‘The Car’, Arctic Monkeys commence a 30 date tour of North America in Minneapolis on Thursday the 25^th of August which concludes with two nights at Foro Sol Stadium in Mexico City on October 6^th & 7^th.

For more information contact:

Website/Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/Spotify/YouTube/Apple Music

The lucky winners of the Jolly Big Business Boost will be given the opportunity to trade for FREE at the Belfast Christmas Market from 18 November until 22 December 2023. Operators of the Belfast Christmas Market, Market Place Europe, are looking for innovative, young entrepreneurs from across Northern Ireland who are ready to take their business to the next level. The Jolly Big Business competition focuses on providing recently established businesses, a platform to sell their products and to build awareness of their brand with over 1 million visitors expected in this year’s Belfast Christmas Market.

Allan Hartwell, Managing Director of Market Place Europe said:

“The Jolly Big Business Boost is a great way for entrepreneurs to enhance their business and get their foot in the door and has proven to be very successful. Businesseve been running this competition for over ten years and each year without fail the winning business has traded brilliantly at the market, so much so that many previous winners have continued to trade each year.’’ 

This year’s judging panel will include media partner Q Radio presenter Jordan Arnold, Fiona Liversidge who looks after Tourism NI’s International Marketing and PR and Market Place Europe’s Managing Director Allan Hartwell. The judges are on the lookout for eye-catching, exciting and creative products.

Q Radio presenter Jordan Arnold said:

“I’m thrilled to join this year’s judging panel to help find the next big name in small business and uncover some of the region’s most exciting entrepreneurs. I would encourage every small business owner from right across Northern Ireland to apply and make their business dreams come true this Christmas. With local and international traders all under one roof, Belfast Christmas Market is a fantastic place to tick off that all-important shopping list, so I’ll be looking for a business that stands out with something really unique that I can give as a gift this year. As an advocate for inspirational women, I’ll also be looking out for the best submissions from female entrepreneurs. Who knows, they could soon be my guest on Q Radio’s Girl Talk!”

Previous winners of the competition, include OutsideIn, Belfast Beard Company and Wave The Animals, all of whom reported great sales and an increase in awareness of their products, vital to success in the early stages of growth.

If you think you have a jolly good product that visitors to the Belfast Christmas Market will enjoy, we want to hear from you, download the application pack now. Interested businesses should submit a short written application, supported by a  2-minute video telling the judges about themselves and their products. Full details of the competition can be found at www.marketplaceeurope.co.uk/news

Belfast Christmas Market will open at 12 noon on the 18th of November.

Opening hours are:

Monday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm

Thursday – Saturday 10am – 10pm

Sunday 12noon – 6pm