A retrospective exhibition of the work of Birr artist Frankie Gallagher will be on show in Birr Library for the month of June, to mark the first anniversary of his death.
Frankie enjoyed drawing from an early age, encouraged by his teacher in St. Brendan’s Community School, Jean Forristal. Brother Denis also continuously gave him encouragement to pursue his art.
The first Art Group he joined was facilitated by Martin Spillane. Tanya Bonds classes further
enhanced Frankie’s skills. Frankie attended the Birr Mental Health Centre, where his art took off, due to the encouragement of the staff there. Frankie went on to tutor the group at their weekly sessions, which was a great boost to his confidence.
The themes in Frankie’s work reflect his love of nature, his love of the town and especially St.
Brendan’s Church. The castle were he enjoyed many walks with his wife Dympna, sunsets reminiscent of
those he would have experienced in Barcelona. The vibrant colours of his favourite artist Van
Gogh, whose work he saw on visits to Amsterdam. Frankie’s keen eye and attention to detail are
evident in his drawings and beautifully executed watercolours. His love of art was the defining
aspect of Frankie’s life. His work featured in nearly every art group exhibition held in Birr. He was
always well supported, and those of us lucky enough to have purchased one of his pieces will
always treasure it and think of the kind, gentle artist who created it.
He is sadly missed by all in The Birr Art Group and we hope this exhibition will go some way
towards celebrating what was Frankie’s great passion and his life’s work.
A retrospective exhibition of Frankie’s work will be on show in Birr Library for the month of June
commencing on Wednesday, 4th of June. The official launch by Lady Alison Rosse, will be
on Wednesday evening the 11/06/25 at 18.30. Tea and coffee will be served. All are invited. The
paintings on display are not for sale, they were kindly loaned by his beloved wife Dympna.
