Studio Artists' News Oct 2025

Phew! Our annual exhibition might be over, but we’re briefly raising our heads from the neglected admin pile to share some wonderful things Creative Exchange's studio members have going on right now —many opening as part of Late Night Art in Belfast this Thursday, October 2.

Derek Wilson — Under Construction  Craft NI Gallery | Oct 2 – Oct 31, 2025

Derek Wilson is using Craft NI Gallery as a project space, exploring the dialogue between collage, painting, and their later translation into sculptural form. As a recent recipient of the Rosemary James Memorial Trust Award, Derek offers a glimpse into his research and process—thinking through composition, balance, tone, colour, line, and form. Opening reception: Oct 2nd 5pm - 8pm

Emma Quin (curator) — non-stick frying pan  Catalyst Arts | Oct 2 – Nov 6, 2025

For her co-directorship project at Catalyst Arts, curator Emma Quin has invited artists Alex Keatinge and Niamh Hannaford to explore the western domestic space as a site where socio-political, economic, and imperial systems are sustained. Through installation and sculpture, they address bodily friction in the home and globalised food systems.

Public programme highlights:

• Nightcap — Thu 9 Oct, 6–9pm (Catalyst)

• Meet and Eat — Thu 16 Oct, 6pm (PS³)

• Parboil, then sauté — Sat 8 Nov, 10.30am, 2pm & 7pm (Catalyst)
  

Bernie McAdam & Katrina Darcy-Smith — Royal Arcade Academy  Arcade Studios | Oct 2 – Oct 30, 2025

Always a favorite, the annual Arcade academy group show returns—this year with over 120 small and exciting artworks! Our Bernie and Katrina both feature in what promises to be their busiest line-up yet.

Finally later this month, Bernie will also present a solo exhibition:

Bernie McAdam — I heard the footfall of the flower of spring…  Ards Art Centre, Sunburst Gallery | Oct 31 – Dec 3, 2025

Drawing on Greek mythology, Bernie reflects on personal trauma, loss, and the enduring resonance of ancient narratives. Through oil painting, cyanotype, mixed-media drawing and writing, she reimagines women maligned by patriarchal classicist readings, bringing forward themes of injustice, betrayal, kindness, and humour.

• Artist Talk (in person in the gallery) — Thu 13 Nov, 6.30pm (Free, booking required, book here)
  

  

  Bernie will give an artist talk in the Sunburst Gallery on Nov 13th