Art In Conflict Zones

Join artist Raymond Watson in discussion with Steve Lally about his latest book What Sort Of Artist Are You?

Raymond and Steve will discuss art projects and gallery exhibitions, local and international, conducted during the last ten years.

These art stories explore the challenge and process of creating in conflict zones like Israel and Palestine, the magic of making multimedia art about Honey Bees, and the poetry of Seamus Heaney, art in the desert refugee camps of Western Sahara, portraits created with sounds, painting with illegal migrants in Italy, sculpting the Good Friday Agreement in Ireland, the mystery of the mythical Broighter Gold Hoard and other audio-visual projects.

Tea and coffee will be provided. Age 12+

About What sort of artist are you?

Raymond’s latest book seeks to answer this title question with engaging stories about his curious art journeys during the last ten years. He recounts and illustrates a selection of unique art stories that range from international war zones to the local community ‘down the road’.

Anyone who believes an artist's life is uncomplicated and easy must read this book.

These art stories describe the challenge and process of creating new projects and exhibitions, in conflict zones like Israel and Palestine, the magic of making multimedia art about Honey Bees, and the poetry of Seamus Heaney, art in the desert refugee camps of Western Sahara, portraits created with unique sounds, painting with illegal migrants in Italy, sculpting the Good Friday Agreement in Ireland, the mystery of mythical Broighter Gold Hoard and audio-visual projects.

Raymond says: ‘I wanted to catalogue my art stories and present examples of the practical realities of life as an art activist and a creator of new ideas. Most people only experience the gallery exhibition of art, here I provide a discussion of the processes, struggles, and challenges of making original art from the moment of the blank canvas to the finished and tangible art piece and gallery exhibitions.’

Raymond Watson is a multimedia artist who lives in and creates art in rural County Antrim, close to Cushendall.

To order a copy of the book What Sort Of Artist Are You? email [email protected] or check out the website.

Host or Publisher Imagine! Belfast Festival of Ideas & Politics