Emotional Surprise as Pottery Throwdown Contestants Reunite at Anna McGurn’s Exhibition Launch

The launch of ‘Humans, Being’, a deeply moving exhibition by County Fermanagh-based ceramic artist Anna McGurn, was made even more memorable by a surprise visit from her fellow contestants from the 2022 BBC One series The Great Pottery Throwdown. Travelling from Birmingham to Omagh, the group reunited to support their friend, creating an emotional and joyful moment filled with laughter, hugs, and heartfelt connection. The exhibition was officially opened last week at the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh.

This month is August Craft Month, allowing for a unique celebration of the craft sector. The timing of Anna’s exhibition is especially fitting, as it highlights the power of craft to express emotion, tell stories, and bring communities together. To mark the occasion, Strule Arts Centre is also hosting a series of special events throughout August.

Anna McGurn’s work focuses on figurative sculpture, bringing clay to life with movement, energy, and emotional depth. Humans, Being explores the many states of human existence—triumph, struggle, stillness, and transformation—through powerful and expressive ceramic forms. The exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the shared human experience and the emotions that shape our identity.

Speaking at the launch, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor McElduff said:

‘I am delighted to join you all here in the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh, for the launch of Anna McGurn’s exhibition – Art has the unique power to bring people together, spark conversations, and inspire understanding and community.

The Council is committed to supporting access to arts and culture across the District for both residents and visitors. Events like this not only showcase exceptional local talent but also highlight the importance of creativity in community life, education, and personal growth.”

Adding a personal and local connection to the show, the exhibition also features a photograph including one of Anna’s former clients from Camphill Clanabogan, where she previously worked as Director.

The exhibition is free to attend and runs until Saturday 30 August, open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am – 5.00pm.

In addition to the exhibition, Strule Arts Centre is hosting two engaging workshops:

Slip Casting Workshop with Rachel Leary – Saturday 2 August
Make Your Own Sculpture with Anna McGurn – Saturday 23 August

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