An acclaimed Co Down artist is to launch his latest exhibition within days of marking a personal milestone.
Killough-based Jim Manley’s new show at Down Arts Centre, his first at the Downpatrick venue for more than a decade, has been arranged to coincide with his 90th birthday celebrations next week.
The Lancashire-born artist and one-time coalminer moved to the county town with his young family in 1971 to take up a teaching post at Ardmore House School, where he would later be vice-principal.
He retired in 1988 and moved to the former Coastguard Station in Killough.
Accordingly, most of the works in the Landmarks exhibition feature the Lecale land or seascape, though some take their inspiration from locations further afield, such as Andalucia and southern France.
Many also reflect the long-time environmental campaigner’s passion for the natural world and man’s adverse impact on it. Some of his themed work marking the bicentennial of Thomas Russell’s execution at Downpatrick Gaol will also be on display.
Denise Griffith, arts officer at Down Arts Centre, said it was an honour to welcome back one of the area’s most celebrated artists.
“Jim Manley is not only one of Co Down’s foremost painters, he has been a strong advocate of the arts in the district for decades, offering encouragement and advice to a new generation of artists,” she said.
“We are delighted to welcome him back to Down Arts Centre as he prepares to celebrate his 90th birthday – may he have many more happy returns.”
Journalist Kevin Magee, who will officially open the Landmarks exhibition, said he had known the artist for 50 years and is a “huge admirer” of his work.
“I’ve known Jim a long time, and have always regarded him a gifted and accomplished artist,” he said.
“His work is provocative, celebratory, bold and tender in equal measure giving us a unique insight into this corner of Co Down where he made his home.”
:: Jim Manley’s ‘Landmarks’ at Down Arts Centre runs from Thursday, January 11-Friday, February 2.