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Saturday 18th October 2025

ZV.Arch @ the 144th RUA Annual Exhibition

This year I was lucky to have two of three submitted pieces on display at the 144th Royal Ulster Artists Annual Exhibition in the Ulster Museum. On Saturday 18th October, all exhibiting artists were invited to a private viewing of the exhibition collection, and it was a wonderful day conversing with artists, celebrating award winners, and networking with like-minded textile-enthusiasts on their personal discovery of artistic language. 

Positioned below a beautiful painting by an RUA member, you will find two of my Linen Landscapes; Drenagh Estate, Co. Derry, and Portglenone Monastery, Co. Antrim. These pieces are both framed and set within an ivory, circular mount - almost hidden within adjacent artworks which have been delicately curated for the show. 

With this being my first experience of exhibiting at an RUA show, I was unsure what to expect. I arrived promptly, to realise that the exhibition space was quite empty whilst there were a few academicians and organisers browsing the pieces and taking in the serenity.

Oh! To be amongst art. 

An RUA member indulged me with stories of his practice. However, what I was most grateful for, was his time spend constructively critiquing my work. Of course being from an architectural background, critique is expected, and my own education has taught me to engage in a reflective process. It was an insightful conversation, but in his words, he suggested not to deviate from my current practice - individuality is key to succeeding as an artist. 

I must admit that I am looking forward to revisiting the exhibition when the cameras are not present. It will be a pleasure to sit and observe some of the artwork. I mostly enjoy colour palettes and diverse compositions. It is a wonderful display of what artists can achieve. And it is a delight to see visitors support the work of artists.