Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Tina Black visited artist Anna McKeever at the Anna McKeever Gallery on the city’s Ormeau Road today to view the ANAM exhibition of 13 paintings by the artist.

The exhibition focuses on the soul and stoicism of the people of Ireland, north and south. ANAM is the Irish word for soul and has wider associations with the island’s collective memory and how it impacts us in modern times.

The Lord Mayor welcomed the exhibition and congratulated Anna on her work:

“This is a poignant exhibition, exploring the Irish psyche and soul in a range of paintings set in towns, cities and rural communities across Ireland. ANAM is a testament to Anna’s talent as an artist, as well as the vibrant arts scene in Belfast – and our city’s well-established reputation as a centre of fine art excellence. I’d like to congratulate Anna on her exhibition and would encourage everyone to come and see it.”

Speaking following the visit, Anna said:

“Belfast has produced some of Ireland’s most famous artists over the decades and I was delighted to welcome the city’s Lord Mayor to the ANAM exhibition. I wanted this exhibition to speak directly to people to Belfast and am delighted that the reception so far has been so positive. The exhibition continues until the end of October at the Gallery at 455 Ormeau Road and all are welcome to attend.

ANAM comprises thirteen paintings, all oil-on-canvas, and explores various themes in Irish history that have shaped our culture and society today. These include the relationship between faith and the people of Ireland, the Famine, emigration, the Troubles, loneliness and human connection.

The collection features locations across the island including the Aran Islands, the Burren, Dublin and Omagh.

ANAM is opened to the public at the Anna McKeever Gallery, Level 2, Ormeau Rd, Belfast BT7 3GQ. Further details online at www.annamckeever.com or on Instagram @anna_mckeever