Nici Le Gear’s ‘Atlantic Embrace’ collection shown at Hunt Museum Cafe

Nici Le Gear opened a new solo exhibition, ‘Atlantic Embrace’ which will run up to January 1, 2024

Limerick painter, Nici Le Gear opens a new solo exhibition, ‘Atlantic Embrace’ which “gives a glimpse of the awe-inspiring beauty of the Atlantic Ocean” at the Hunt Museum Cafe

Featuring 19 paintings in oil and acrylic, Nici Le Gear’s exhibition will run in the Cafe until January 1, 2024. The Westbury-based artist has previously displayed her work in The People’s Museum of Limerick with ArtLimerick, in the ABC for Mental Health Green Ribbon Exhibition and she was Silkes Artist of the Month for May.

Explaining the inspiration behind the collection, saying, “It gives a glimpse of the awe-inspiring beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the solace it offers when life’s burdens weigh you down.

“From the invigorating rush of the roaring waves to the peaceful serenity of tranquil beaches, this exhibition invites you to experience the ocean’s therapeutic embrace. “In the presence of the Atlantic, your worries become mere grains of sand in the grand scheme of existence. The ocean’s ceaseless roar reminds us of the insignificance of our troubles, filling us with a sense of wonder and humility.”

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Nici says the Atlantic is something that Limerick and Clare people can connect with and that “this collection resonates with Limerick audiences and wanderers en route to the coast”.

She said, “Especially as we move into winter, our minds can cast back to holidays and break away – the coast holds a special place in all our hearts.”

Explaining how she started out as an artist, Nici says she had toyed with the idea of selling her art for a long time, however, she found she always had an excuse not to do it.

What pushed her in the end was losing someone suddenly and way before their time. It made her think “What am I waiting for? I may not be here next year, so I should do it now!”

She signed up for her first market with ten days’ notice, which allowed her not to think at all.

“Being an artist allows me to embrace the preciousness of the present moment. It serves as a constant reminder to seize the day, to pursue our passions relentlessly, and to leave behind a legacy that transcends our own mortality.”

Nici came to realise that life is too precious to be wasted on trivial pursuits and unfulfilled
dreams.

Creating art allows Nici to embrace the beauty of impermanence. “It taught me to cherish the fleeting moments, the delicate interplay of light and shadow, and the intricate details that often go unnoticed.

“Art has an extraordinary ability to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and bridge the
gaps that divide us.

“Through my creations, I have found a way to share my innermost thoughts and experiences, in the hopes of touching someone else’s heart, offering solace, or even inspiring a sense of awe.

“I am an artist because life is too short, and art is a timeless vessel that carries our emotions
and stories long after we are gone.”

People can view the pieces Tuesday to Saturday from 10am until 4.30pm and on Sundays
from 11am until 4pm.

The exhibition will be officially opened on Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 4pm, in the Hunt
Museum Café. Gicleé archival prints are available in the Hunt Museum shop, allowing people to bring a piece of this captivating world into their own space.

For more information or to see examples of Nici’s work go here
Read more Art stories here.