Graham Gingles: The Theatre of Secrets

16 October 2021 – 19 February 2022

The F.E. McWilliam Gallery and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council is delighted to present Graham Gingles: The Theatre of Secrets. Over the last five decades, Graham Gingles (b. Larne, 1943), has produced a unique body of work that has consistently challenged established definitions of sculpture. This major exhibition, curated by Brian McAvera, Feargal O’Malley and Riann Coulter, aims to confirm Gingles place in the canon of Irish, British and international art and to introduce the wider public to his compelling work.

Gingles’ sculptural practice focuses on the construction of three-dimensional environments contained within vitrines or architectural boxes. Initially reminiscent of dolls’ houses, closer examination reveals tableaus that represent the artist’s meditations on love, conflict and death. Almost entirely hand-made, they display Gingles exquisite craftsmanship and black humour. The first boxes, dating from the early 1970s, presented scenarios about the Troubles and were Gingles attempt to make sense of the horrors that were unfolding around him.  Since then, he has chronicled his life and times through the construction of these mesmerizing miniature worlds.

Featuring key works from public and private collections throughout Ireland and the UK, the exhibition is accompanied by the first major book on Gingles work written by Brian McAvera.

One of the UK and Ireland’s artistic ‘hidden gems’ is safely welcoming everyone back

FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio reopened in Banbridge today (Wednesday July 29) and is safely welcoming back visitors to enjoy its award-winning permanent display of McWilliam’s work, outstanding exhibitions, craft shop, gardens, food and drink.

Dedicated to the memory of local sculptor Frederick Edward McWilliam, one of Ireland’s most influential and successful artists, the free-to-visit gallery and studio, which has been closed since March, will be open Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm.

Described by the Irish Times as one of the island’s ‘hidden gems’ and a “remarkable” facility, top travel expert Pol O’Conghaile at the Irish Independent has also described the gallery and studio as a ‘hidden gem’ while heaping praise on its award-winning restaurant, Quail’s.

The FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio was established in 2008, two decades after the sculptor’s death, to house works his family bequeathed to the people of Banbridge, including the contents of his studio, a replica of which sits in the garden.

The son of a local doctor, McWilliam was born in the town in 1909 and his work spans most of the major artistic movements of the 20th century.

Featuring a permanent display of McWilliam’s work, temporary exhibitions of Irish and international art, a craft shop, café and Banbridge Visitor Information Point, the FE McWilliam Gallery and Studio is popular among visitors from across the island.

FE McWilliam Gallery & Studio Curator, Dr Riann Coulter, said:

“After being closed for four long months, we are thrilled to be reopening our doors and to be safely welcoming back visitors to enjoy the gallery, exhibitions and our outstanding restaurant. We provide a unique experience which celebrates our artistic greats in a relaxing, spacious and safe environment which promotes reflection and thought. We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone back.”

The FE McWilliam Gallery reopened to the public on Wednesday 29th of July. Opening hours for August will be Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

In the main gallery, the exhibition Penumbra featuring the work of eight female painters from Ireland runs until the 3 October while in the garden, work by sculptors Orla de Bri, Anna Campbell and Eileen MacDonagh are showcased in the exhibition Steel Stone Bronze.

Quail’s at the Gallery will be open for breakfast, coffee and lunch. Outdoor dining is also available.

For more information on visiting FE McWilliam Gallery & Studio, and for great ideas, things to do, places to eat, drink and stay, log on to, www.visitarmagh.com/reopening-summer-20.