‘Absinthe & Absence’ Exhibition Enjoyed at Strule Arts Centre

Strule Arts Centre in Omagh is proud to host the thought-provoking touring exhibition Absinthe & Absence by acclaimed Dublin-born artist Jackie Hudson Lalor. This compelling solo show, which first premiered at Droichead Arts Centre in Drogheda in November 2024 and later travelled to Hamilton Gallery in Sligo in March 2025, officially opened at Strule Arts Centre on Thursday evening, 4 September.

Jackie Hudson Lalor’s multidisciplinary practice encompasses oil painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture. She describes her work as “representational and detailed with a surreal sensibility,” rooted in deeply personal, autobiographical themes. Through her art, Hudson Lalor explores psychological trauma, interpersonal relationships, and female agency with striking emotional depth and nuance.

In the beautifully curated exhibition catalogue produced by Droichead Arts Centre, Dorothy Smith ARHA, Visual Arts Curator in Residence, notes that grief stands as the central theme of Hudson Lalor’s work – an insight that resonates powerfully throughout the exhibition.

Speaking at the launch, Councillor Shirley Hawkes, Vice Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, thanked Jackie Hudson Lalor and the Strule Arts Centre team for bringing such a powerful exhibition to the local community. In her speech, Councillor Hawkes highlighted the Council’s ongoing support for the arts:

“Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to supporting access to arts and culture in the District for both residents and visitors. Art is an important element of community life and offers opportunities for education and personal growth by encouraging self-reflection, expression and creative exploration.”

Absinthe & Absence runs until Saturday, 27 September 2025. The exhibition is open Monday to Saturday, from 9:30am to 5:00pm. Admission is free, and all are welcome.