June 2007 Sculpture exhibition comments on Irish healthcare system

A novel exhibition, "Laughter is the Only Medicine: a comment on the ills of our medical healthcare system" comes to NUI Galway's Art Gallery for a three week run from Wednesday, 20 June to Sunday 8 July 2007.

Brigit Beemster, a ceramic sculptor based in Sligo brings her 10 piece exhibition which looks at the pitfalls encountered in what she describes as "a two tier medical health system". The pieces span a period from a GP's visit to three variations of heaven.

Professor Pat Finnegan, Professor Emeritus and Chairman of the Galway University Hospitals Arts Trust will open the exhibition at the Art Gallery, in the Quadrangle at 6.00pm on Wednesday, 20 June 2007.

NUI Galway Arts Officer Fionnuala Gallagher says; "Brigit Beemster s ceramic sculptures are the best kept secret in Ireland. She captures the weight, relaxation, expressions and foibles of these human bodies with an understanding that is comically tender. You will laugh at your own failings."

Explaining the inspiration for her creations, Ms Beemster says: "An essential ingredient of my work is a sense of humour, because it is the best communicator and equaliser, it puts things in perspective and laughing is a crucial part of life.

"Over the past few years I have chosen a theme for my work for the year. So far, I've done art history and science, history and mythology. This year it is all about the healthcare system. I learn and read all about my subject and base my work on this knowledge."

NUI Galway Art Gallery hosts a variety of visually stimulating exhibitions throughout the year. It promotes emerging Galway and national artists as well as touring exhibitions from international embassies, cultural organisations and educational institutions. The exhibition is free and open to the public from 10.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday and 12pm to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday.