Abbeyleix art exhibition will see 'fantasy and fairytales' this August

A new art exhibition will launch in Abbeyleix library, which blends surrealism and fantasy in modern art.

The exhibition entitled 'A Peculiar Fairytale' will be available to the public for the month of August. The launch will take place on August 1, with food and drink available for the celebration. 

Louise Walsh (Lou Walsh Art) of Johnstown, Kilkenny, is an award winning artist known for her bright and detailed illustrations and paintings.

Through her intricately detailed artworks, Ms Walsh makes social commentary on environmentalism and human rights.

Pictured: "A Starry Night Witch" by Louise Walsh, inspired by Vincent Van Gogh.

Ms Walsh found inspiration from Van Gogh's 'Starry Night'.

"I love the details of the swirls in his works. I just love the details and the colours, I love all things celestial," said the artist.

"After my illustration course, I learned about his impasto style. The thick layering and textures just drew me in," she said.

One element of this exhibition is “The Abandoned and Unfinished”, which showcases the frustration felt by artists surrounding an unfinished work.

“There are plenty of artworks I have binned and been frustrated with, leading to self doubt in my artistic abilities,” said the artist.

“What I’ve noticed is, my best artworks always come after several artworks haven't gone to plan! I never see unfinished art displayed, and I want to give space to show that it's okay and normal to get writers block," Ms Walsh said.

"The hardest part about being an artist is artists block, and your confidence in your own work. Self criticism is your worst enemy. Then you end up with art-block, they really go hand in hand," she said.

Ms Walsh also sources inspiration from her childhood.

"I'm inspired by things all things Halloween and fairytales, Tim Burton and Disney definitely inspires me without me even realising," she said.

"If I walk into a shop and even see packaging and detailing I like, that can inspire me!" she said.

The artist has previously held exhibitions in Thurles and Cork.

The exhibition will also feature artworks from her grandmother Maura Walsh.

"She was an amazing artist, she was so supportive of my art and always encouraged me," said Ms Walsh.

Above: More artworks by Louise Walsh.

Join Louise Walsh and guests on Thursday August 1 at 5:30pm in Abbeyleix Library.