In Memory: Ray Duncan (1940 to 2025)

Members of Creative Exchange Artist Studios are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our fellow artist, studio member, and friend, Ray Duncan.

A prolific and inspirational painter, Ray was a founding member of Creative Exchange in 1996. Throughout his long career he exhibited widely, with both solo and group shows, and continued to make work with great passion and commitment.

Over the years and beyond his own practice, Ray helped to shape Belfast’s arts community in difficult times. He was a qualified arts teacher; he attended classes at Belfast Art College under John Luke and Terry Flanagan and taught art at schools and colleges across the city - his dedication to teaching reflected his belief in the transformative power of creativity.

Current and former studio members know that without Ray’s foresight, dedication and belief in creating a place for artists to work, none of us would have the studios or practices we have today. His impact on Creative Exchange is profound and lasting.

We are deeply grateful to Ray, who will be greatly missed and remembered with warmth and admiration.

As a studio group, we are also thankful for the many condolences, memories, and kind messages we have received from partners, peers, and friends in the arts community. 

Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Ray’s devoted wife, Sara and his family at this difficult time.

Images:

Top of page: Ray Duncan in his studio in 2019 with a new piece. Photo by John Duncan

In gallery above. 1. Ray in his studio with Francesca from Gallery 545 who frequently showed his work. 2. Ray celebrates with other Creative Exchange members in 2017 3. Ray with son John at the 25 year of Creative Exchange exhibition in QSS in 2023.