
Wexford artist brings history to life with Modern Nostalgia exhibition
Wexford People
Today at 12:12
Wexford is a town that has a particular penchant for nostalgia. Oftentimes all it takes is a throwaway reference to particular character or the appearance of an old photo to send memories flooding back and spark lengthy conversations, be they at a barstool or in the virtual world.
Local artist Paul Whelan's latest exhibition Modern Nostalgia seeks to explore that fondness for times gone by, but through a modern lens. His paintings capture old, familiar scenes but in a modern way that's uniquely his and invites reflection on the personal histories of his subjects.
Pauls art bridges the past and present, combining traditional themes with innovate techniques to create visually stunning works that resonate emotionally and spark conversation for a whole host of reasons. Well-known for distinctive work in pen, ink and acrylic, Paul brings history to life by creating his own unique interpretations of old images.
His work certainly generated discussion at the opening of his exhibition in The Pigyard Gallery on Selskar Street. Doing the honours was fellow artist Declan Breen, who provided his own insight into Paul's work, while Jason O'Connor's music provided a lovely soundtrack to the evening.
The exhibition will run at The Pigyard Gallery at 13 Selskar Street until June 21.

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The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- The Irish Sun
RTE Fair City star and father to A-list Irish actress reveals he is ‘heartbroken' after finalising divorce
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Sunday World
3 days ago
- Sunday World
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He now lives there alone and is in dispute with some neighbours about access to the river. Saoirse is the couple's only child, and last Friday week announced she and her Scottish actor husband Jack Lowden were expecting their first child. Paul and married Monica Brennan in 1992, having met her in the 1980s. "My mam and dad left school at 15 or 16 and have been working ever since. My mam was a cleaner and a nanny and my dad worked in a bar and then was an actor, with a proper job for years," Saoirse once said to The Mirror. Paul told the Sunday World about the row over the Aghade bridge News in 90 Seconds - June 1st "We weren't poor but we didn't have money. So, I knew the value of money from an early age. I knew that whatever we had, it was because of sacrifices made by them. So, I think that's given me a great appreciation for money." Monica played a major role in Saoirse's early career, accompanying her on set as a chaperone when she was underage. 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Irish Independent
5 days ago
- Irish Independent
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