Strule Arts Centre Celebrates Opening of Herstory Peace Heroines Exhibition

The Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, unveiled the Herstory Peace Heroines exhibition on Thursday, 28th March. The exhibition shines a spotlight on the stories of 30 remarkable individuals and collective peace heroines who have made profound contributions to peace and reconciliation efforts across Northern Ireland.

Featuring nine original portraits by the acclaimed artist FRIZ, alongside 14 double-sided interpretation panels, the exhibition provides a powerful visual narrative of the peace-building journey. In a bid to embed local relevance and resonance, the exhibition proudly includes the contributions of women from Omagh. From trade union activists to pioneers of integrated education, these local heroines have played pivotal roles within the community.

During the launch event, there was an array of speakers who delved into a variety of topics, the significance of integrated education, and the essence of community involvement, among others.

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O’ Reilly, reflected on the event, saying,

“The Herstory Peace Heroines exhibition, which I was pleased to launch, along with its accompanying events, underscore the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s commitment to celebrating and promoting peace, unity, and the vital role of women in these endeavours. By highlighting these stories of peace, courage, resilience, and leadership, the Council hopes to inspire ongoing dialogue and action towards a more peaceful and inclusive society.

I encourage everyone to visit the exhibition, which highlights the efforts and achievements of grassroots organisations and individuals that work tirelessly to advocate peace.”

Herstory Peace Heroines will be on display until 25 April 2024, admission is free for everyone to enjoy anytime between 9am and 5pm at the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh.

Enhancing the reach and impact of the Herstory Peace Heroines exhibition, a digital campaign is accompanying the physical display, with the individual’s and stories all being shared online via the Strule Arts Centre’s social media.

To also build on the momentum of the exhibition, the Strule Arts Centre is set to host an array of engaging activities. Kicking off these events is the already sold-out EmpowerHER workshop, which promises to inspire and uplift young participants. The Centre is also delighted to welcome peace heroine Anne Carr on 18th April for two events, including the Paths to Peace conference and Leading the Way workshop. Spaces for these events are available for booking on the Strule Arts Centre website.

For more information, visit the Strule Arts Centre website at struleartscentre.co.uk or contact Melissa Harpur, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s Development Officer (Heritage), by emailing heritage@fermanaghomagh.com