New Anam Gallery set to open in Roscommon

Artist and businesswoman Rita Oates opens the doors to the new Anam Gallery in Roscommon town. 

The inaugural exhibition will feature works from local street artists, activist Joe Caslin, fashion designer and sculptor Una Burke, and Oates' collection. 

Located in the former coach house at Main Street, the gallery unites Roscommon's commercial, historical and creative spaces and wider regions.

Combined with the upcoming Boyle Arts Festival and events and exhibits in King House, this Hidden Heartlands gem will entice arts and cultural enthusiasts from all over the country throughout the Summer. 

Joe Caslin is best known for his beautifully rendered pencil drawings which manifest as towering pieces of street art, such as the prominent Marriage Equality mural at the junction of Dame St and Georges St in Dublin. As an artist, teacher and activist, Caslin's highly accessible work engages directly with the social issues of modern Ireland. 

Una Burke founded her eponymous art and fashion brand in 2010, and this exhibition will feature leather pieces worn by Cindy Crawford in Taylor Swift's Bad Blood video, Jennifer Lawrence in the Hunger Games movies, Michelle Yeoh in Star Trek and global sensation Rihanna. 

Rita Oates collection combines images with positive, meaningful and thought-provoking messages of hope and encouragement, resulting in a collection of designer scarves, framed prints, greeting cards and stationery. Oates' work is inspired by nature, kindness and the power of the human spirit. 

Oates' long-term aim for the Anam Gallery is to become a new home for creative talent in Ireland and provide a space for young artists to showcase their work, with a planned annual youth exhibition. 

The Anam Gallery Opening Exhibition is supported by the Roscommon County Council Creative Ireland Programme 2023-2027 and runs from July 8 to September 2. All visitors are welcome.