New Exhibition ‘The Journey’ by Printmaker Mary Kpakra Launched at Strule Arts Centre

A new exhibition by acclaimed fine art printmaker Mary Kpakra has launched at Strule Arts Centre, Omagh. The Journey, which opened on Thursday 2 July 2026, celebrates Mary’s remarkable artistic career and lifelong passion for printmaking and will be on display throughout July, giving visitors the opportunity to experience her distinctive and inspiring work.

Originally from Carrickfergus, Mary is a former member of the renowned Seacourt Print Workshop and has exhibited extensively throughout Ireland in both solo and group exhibitions. Her work has been showcased at venues including the Waterfront Hall, Dublin Airport, the Ulster Museum, the Island Arts Centre and Flowerfield Arts Centre.

The Journey highlights Mary’s extraordinary determination and creativity. Despite losing most of her sight in her early twenties and living with just 5% central vision and colour blindness, she continues to create intricate, tactile and visually striking original prints. Her work is a testament to her resilience, skill and commitment to her craft.

Drawing inspiration from her experiences living in Africa and travelling throughout China, India and Peru, Mary’s prints reflect a deep appreciation of colour, texture and the natural world. The exhibition showcases a captivating collection of works that demonstrate both her technical expertise and unique artistic perspective.

Launching the exhibition, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Debbie Coyle, said
“Today is a celebration of Mary’s remarkable artistic journey and her lifelong determination to pursue her passion for printmaking despite losing most of her sight in her early twenties.

Living with just 5% central vision and colour blindness, Mary continues to create intricate, tactile and visually striking original prints, demonstrating incredible resilience, creativity and skill.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, recognises the important role arts and culture play in our communities, and I am delighted to see Mary’s inspiring work showcased at Strule Arts Centre.”

Visitors have the opportunity to explore this impressive exhibition and discover the stories, experiences and inspirations behind Mary’s distinctive printmaking practice.

The exhibition will run until Saturday 25 July 2026 and can be viewed Monday to Saturday, 9.30am – 5pm. For further information, please visit www.struleartscentre.co.uk or call 028 8224 7831.