Royal Ulster Academy

At the Belfast RUA exhibition, three well-known and three not so well known artists stole the show. Neil Shawcross’s sensitive and witty portrait of the late Ted Hickey and his cocky gunslinger posed portrait of Graham Shingles were simply outstanding. Colin Davidson’s work over the last couple of years has reinforced his position as the best young painter in Ireland – and his new work here didn’t disappoint. Carol Graham was also well back in form with ‘Seaway’. Joanna Mules's superb pastel portrait study “Renaissance” was Not For Sale – if it was - I would have bought it myself. Stephen Dillon won the Conor Prize for his ceramic figures – I first saw his work in the studio of the artist Jonny McEwen who raved about his work. How right McEwen was. Sam Mateer – master of pastel - as always presented the highest standard of work. The Royal Ulster Academy is losing its exhibiting space next year and until 2008 during the Ulster Museum refurbishment. For this year, worth the visit. Ulster Museum to 9th Oct - Botanic Gardens Belfast BT9 5AB 07725 316 583