Fermanagh ceramic artist presents ‘To the Edge of Sight’ at Enniskillen Castle

A striking new exhibition of ceramic sculptures, ‘To the Edge of Sight’, has recently launched at Enniskillen Castle, showcasing the evocative work of Fermanagh-based ceramic artist Anna McGurn.

Working primarily in figurative sculpture, Anna creates expressive and dynamic pieces that explore movement, energy and human emotion. Each sculpture is brought vividly to life through gesture and expression, inviting viewers to pause, look closer and consider the stories held within each figure.

Through her distinctive approach to ceramic sculpture, Anna explores the subtle ways in which individuals occupy and interact with the world around them. Her work draws attention to the human presence in its many forms, encouraging audiences to look beyond the immediate and discover the narratives and emotions beneath the surface.

The exhibition at Enniskillen Castle provides a fitting setting for this captivating collection, bringing together works that celebrate observation, connection and the complexity of everyday human experience.

Speaking at the opening of the exhibition, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, said: “As a self-taught ceramic artist from County Fermanagh, Anna’s journey demonstrates that creativity, passion and determination can open new doors at any stage in life.

“Many people will know Anna from her appearance on ‘The Great Pottery Throwdown’ in 2022, where reaching the final gave her the confidence to further develop her artistic practice and explore new techniques. Since then, she has continued to build an impressive body of work that has been exhibited across Ireland and the UK.

“Anna has also made a significant contribution to Fermanagh and Omagh District Council’s Civic Art Collection. Her beautiful piece, The Earth Jar, created in collaboration with members of the Camphill Community in Clanabogan, is proudly displayed in the Town Hall. It is a wonderful example of how art can bring people together, celebrate creativity and create a lasting legacy for the wider community.

“Beyond her own artistic achievements, Anna continues to make a valuable contribution through workshops, community projects and by creating opportunities for others to develop their own creative skills. Through initiatives such as her Mud Club, she encourages participation in the arts and inspires others to explore their creativity.”

Councillor Coyle added: “On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I would like to congratulate Anna on this wonderful exhibition and thank her for sharing her creativity, talent and unique perspective with us.”

Reflecting on the exhibition Anna said: “I am so delighted to be given this opportunity to have this exhibition of my work in Enniskillen Castle. It is made even more special because it is in my home county, a place I love and am inspired by.

“A lot of work goes into an exhibition and making the pieces is only part of that.  Art is important, it enriches our lives. I am so grateful to have had the Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, open the exhibition and to have the ever supportive and champion of the arts, Noelle McAlinden, speak at the event.”

Guest speaker, Noelle McAlinden, said: “Anna McGurn is a gifted artist who breathes life into clay. She has the capacity to capture every emotion experienced as part of the fragile and resilient human condition in her ceramic creations.

“I have been struck by how she creates forms that are both human and abstract; fragile, fractured and scarred by life’s challenges, yet fierce and strong in their resistance to defeat. They challenge us, they breathe with a heartbeat, and pulse with emotions that resonate with all of us.

“It is a pleasure and a privilege to help launch this new body of work. Visitors are in for a treat. Anna has grown to know clay in the most intimate way, creating and moulding what some may perceive as just a piece of clay and transforming it into something of ‘a being’, a ‘breathing presence’.

“I have been moved by both how and what she creates. In her very humble way, she is an artist who fully engages with communities of all ages and stages of life, with huge compassion.

“I don’t think she fully realises the gifts she has, or the gift she is to all of us. Huge congratulations, Anna, on this exceptional body of work. I hope it tours. I am so proud to see this exhibition in Enniskillen Castle Museums.”

‘To the Edge of Sight’ officially opened at Enniskillen Castle on Saturday 3 October and will run until 23 January 2027. It is open daily, Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 5pm, and Saturday from 11am to 5pm.

For more information on the exhibition, and further information on events at Enniskillen Castle, visit: www.enniskillencastle.co.uk.