Council Chair Impressed by School Art Exhibition

Councillor Naomi Bailie, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council was delighted to meet with pupils and teachers from St Mary’s High School, Downpatrick recently.

Cllr Bailie was invited to The Saint Patrick Centre in the county town to view the Annual art exhibition of GCSE and A Level compiled bythe School’s Art, Design and Moving Images class.

Speaking at the visit Chairperson Bailie said, “As a former pupil of St Mary’s I am delighted to be here today to view this fantastic exhibition produced by a group of very talented students. I studied art myself at St Mary's and was a product of a system and group of teachers who were so very dedicated. In me they fostered a love for creative expression and an understanding of colours, shapes and textures. Whilst I haven't used those skills to pursue through my career choices they continue to add value to my life through my chosen hobbies and past-times. This sector has grown immensely over recent years and particularly in this region where we have such a rich culture of local craft producers. I hope that the girls here today will use their gift and this experience as they progress into working life.” 

Concluding Chairperson Bailie commended St Mary’s High School for having the foresight to recognise their pupils work and commented, "The work on display today is so impressive and is a credit to both the students and teachers Una Watters, Head of Arts Department and Marie Fegan.”