Photo was taken last night in Col√°iste Choilm, Ballincollig, Co.Cork (Irl)

A collection of various Impressionist paintings created by 5th Year art students was launched last night in Col√°iste Choilm. All paintings were sold last night in aid of Cork Cancer Research Centre. Sarah Armstrong stands beside one of her paintings last night.

Thought on Saturday – April – 16/04/2011

To send light into the darkness of people’s hearts – such is the duty of the artist. ~Schumann

It was my privilege to launch the Impressionist Art exhibition last night in Col√°iste Choilm. The art on display was truly wonderful and got widespread praise from the huge turnout of people who came to see the paintings. Even better again all the money raised last night went to the Cork Cancer Research Centre. As a photographer myself I can take a picture, download it in seconds and send it off to the other side of the world in a few more seconds. Photography can become casual at times, particularly when we are saturated with images from every corner. An artist is far from casual. Every painting takes weeks and hours of dedicated work. The layers of colour are patiently added. The artist is not concerned with instant fleeting moments but much more interested in creating a wonderful moment over time. The exhibition last night in Col√°iste Choilm was a collection of these wonderful moments and a great tribute to the talents of the young people involved. The work of every artist is a reminder on the importance of reflective time in our lives. It is also a reminder how important it is to be able to take a step back from the hectic pace of life and produce something that has priceless value. If you are an artist, you have a truly precious talent. It is indeed a gift and blessing from God. May God continue to bless you as you add colour, beauty, light and hope to those special moments in life that can often pass us by.