A River Runs Through It: Confluence Exhibition Opens at Strule Arts Centre

There could be no better home for a new exhibition about the River Strule than Strule Arts Centre itself, perched right on its banks in the heart of Omagh. The Centre is proud to welcome Confluence, a celebration of the river and its importance to local life, now running until Saturday 25 October 2025.

Created by the Shore Collective, an artist-led group based near Lough Neagh, the exhibition explores how the Strule shapes Omagh – and how people, in turn, have influenced the river’s flow and story. From its meeting point with the Camowen and Drumragh, the Strule is shown not only as a natural wonder but also as a vital part of community identity and wildlife habitats.

The exhibition includes a wide mix of artforms: paintings, textiles, sculpture, photography, and even artists’ journals and sketches. Together, they capture the beauty, history, and energy of the rivers that define the area.

Councillor Barry McElduff, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council said;

“Strule Arts Centre continues to be a beacon of creativity and community spirit in our district, and the Confluence exhibition is a perfect reflection of that.

The River Strule is not just a geographical feature – it’s a living thread that connects our people, our history, and our future. I commend the Shore Collective for capturing this essence so beautifully and invite everyone to experience the exhibition and celebrate the richness of our local culture.

The thought of this Exhibition is already whetting my appetite for further and future consideration of how we can turn the town of Omagh even more towards the River Strule for the benefit of our residents and visitors alike.”

Shore Collective began life as the North Armagh Artists Collective and today brings together creatives across Northern Ireland, working in everything from fine art and ceramics to music and writing. Their shared passion is giving audiences new ways to connect with art – and with the places we call home.

Open Monday – Saturday, 9:30am – 5:00pm until Saturday 25 October 2025. Admission is free.

Artists Louise Lennon and Kathryn Nelson of the Shore Collective will offer a Gallery Tour at 12pm on Saturday 11 October in Strule Gallery. This event is free but booking is advised at https://bit.ly/3IOSmbi

For more information about Confluence or the wider programme at Strule Arts Centre, visit www.struleartscentre.co.uk, call 028 8224 7831, or email strulearts@fermanaghomagh.com