Local artist Mavis Thomson launches exhibition and book of artworks

On Saturday 9 December 2023, local artist, Mavis Thomson SRUA, launched an exhibition and book of sculptural assemblages, entitled “Coloured Thoughts”, at Enniskillen Castle.

Mavis Thomson has exhibited extensively throughout the island of Ireland and her work is represented in many national and international public collections. Born in Omagh, Mavis has made her home in Enniskillen. A Royal Ulster Academician, she is also a member of the Ulster Watercolour Society, The Turner Society, London, as well as being a past member of the Watercolour Society of Ireland and a life member of the Ulster Society of Women Artists.

Originally best known for her watercolours, Mavis began to work with found driftwood and discarded objects to create powerful sculptural pieces, often accompanied by a poem written by the artist:

“Over a period of several years I made artworks with verse using a variety of media in the form of driftwood assemblage and construction – relating to an event, tribute, tragedy, dream, or other factual observation as it occurred.” (Artist’s Statement, quoted from the publication, “Coloured Thoughts, Mavis Thomson”, 2023)

The “Coloured Thoughts” exhibition complements the launch of the new book of 21 of Mavis’s sculptural assemblages. Nearly all of the sculptures and accompanying verses in the publication are on show within the exhibition. Some of sculptural assemblages are part of Fermanagh County Museum’s collection, however, there are some which have never been exhibited before in public. Poignant as well as sometimes playful and humorous, the art on display is both thought provoking and uplifting.

Vice Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor AnnMarie Donnelly, who officially launched the exhibition and book, paid the following tribute:

“I am delighted that you are launching your book and exhibition here in Enniskillen, your home town, and within the beautiful backdrop of Enniskillen Castle.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to supporting the arts and ensuring it is accessible to all. By creating opportunities for artists, and particularly local artists, to exhibit so residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to experience such talent helps us to achieve this.

Mavis, I would like to commend you on all your achievements to date and particularly on this wonderful exhibition and book. You are an inspiration to all aspiring artists as you have demonstrated that if you have a talent, interest and determination to learn and develop, you can achieve great things.”

Guest speakers at the opening, Ms Noelle McAlinden, High Sheriff of Fermanagh, and Dr Denise Ferran, Artist and Art Historian, also spoke very highly of Mavis’s achievements as an artist as well as her ongoing generosity of spirit, imagination and energy in inspiring and supporting others to create and enjoy works of art.

The “Coloured Thoughts” exhibition continues at Enniskillen Castle until 24 February 2024. The “Coloured Thoughts” publication can be purchased at the Enniskillen Castle Shop and online via the Enniskillen Castle website www.enniskillencastle.co.uk.