The Blackwater Valley Makers, Fermoy are excited to be the host to a stunning new exhibition “Still Standing” by much loved Kildorrery artist Ed Quinn. The gallery will show the works from September till the end of October with an opening event and wine reception on Saturday, 5th September 3-5pm. Everyone is welcome and admission is free of charge. Ed is a very interesting artist and has enjoyed a long career with varying styles incorporated in his paintings. Edward Quinn was born in Belfast, where he studied at The Ulster College of Art and Design, gaining an Honours Degree in Fine Art. He has lived in Co. Cork for over 40 years, and is well-known, both as a teacher of Art, at Regina Mundi College, Douglas, and as an artist himself. Many young, and not so young, students have been inspired by the passion he exudes for every aspect of his subject. Ed’s retirement has given him the freedom to explore new pathways, drawing him into the wonders of the natural world that is Ireland, with its mountains, rivers, lakes and wild, rugged coastline: in particular, he has become fascinated by the forests of Ireland, whose mysterious ancient trees never cease to captivate him, as they change in shape, colour and mood, from season to season. More recently, he returned to the world of abstract art, with free-flowing, vibrant images which border on the surreal. He feels that a strange symbiosis has developed between the “impressionist” landscape work and these newer, more strident pieces, as they seem to co-exist, unexpectedly, with his inspiration passing between the two styles quite freely. This wonderfully bright summer of 2026 has pulled Ed back to his love of flowers, both wild and cultivated, giving him an exciting new perspective, which can be clearly seen in many of the pieces showing here. This exhibition is a reflection of the three pathways he has been following. Edwards paintings can be seen in several galleries around Ireland, including…. The Purcell Gallery, Kenmare, Co. Kerry The Castlemartyr House Gallery, East Cork Draiocht, Adare, Co. Limerick The Aisling, Ballydehob and in private collections, both here and abroad. Blackwater Valley Makers would like to take this opportunity to thank Cork County Council and Synergy Credit Union for their continued support. The gallery at 12 McCurtain St., Fermoy is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm. Read more Read less