PREVIEW: Local artist exhibits at Zona Rosa, Mexican restaurant in Kemptown

Zona Rosa Restaurant in Kemptown are holding an exhibition of the work of John N Byrne starting tomorrow. February 3.

Born in Carlow, South East Ireland in 1978, John has never attended art school or had any professional schooling in this field.  And, although, he spent 10 years submerged in the Australian art world whilst working for the prestigious Art Gallery of New South Wales and The Museum of Contemporary Art, he has only recently become an artist and photographer in his own right.

He freely admits that he was a ‘tortured soul’ having struggled with his mental health for several years resulting in a period of homelessness. Art became his escape and with the support of his partner Duncan it has enabled him to turn his life around.

Their home has become a working studio allowing him to explore his creativity with various media.

John has an eclectic collection of unique contemporary abstract artwork.

He has a passion for upcycling materials many of which are salvaged; creating one off pieces on for example glass windows, wood, clothing, carpet etc, using a variety of paints and other materials to achieve texture.

Without the use of a paintbrush John creates original abstract pieces.  Each one offers something different to the minds eye with new treasures regularly revealing themselves.

He has a natural ability to see and capture intriguing minute detail in everyday objects and events and nowhere is this more evident than in his photography. He strongly believes art is beneficial for the soul and that it can transport the observer to another place.

If you would like to see other creations by the artist you can arrange a visit to his private studio in Regency Square, Brighton. Telephone 07507 651822

All donations received during the exhibition will be given to the Sussex Beacon.

Event: Exhibition of the work of John N Byrne

Where: Zona Rosa Cocina Mexicana/Bar, College Rd, Brighton BN2 1JB

When: Exhibition starts Wednesday, February 1

Times: Check out the Zona Rosa website for opening times

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