The ‘indomitable spirit’ of two city artists was celebrated last week as they launched their combined new work, a book entitled ‘Pictures & Poetry’.
Daithí Holohan and Jim Murray attracted a large crowd of friends and admirers to St Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall for the launch, which was hosted by renowned local thespian, Ger Cody.
Daithí and Jim have been friends for decades, have shared a great wealth of experiences together and are well known for their work locally.
Both have used their artistic talents as a creative outlet during the most challenging times in their lives and careers and they both have an unmatched ability to document human struggle and unconquerable spirit.
Cody commended the fighting spirit of Daithí and Jim on the night, and congratulated them for ‘adding another layer to the rich tapestry of Kilkenny’s literary tradition’.
Conducting readings to a captivated audience were Brendan Corcoran and Claire Henriques.
The publication’s cover is a portrait that Daithí painted of Jim, based on a sketch from many years ago. It signifies their shared vision, experiences and struggles as artists.
It would be difficult to think of a more fitting duo to join forces on a collaborative project such as this.
The spirit of Daithí and Jim was perhaps best summed up in a quote recited on the night from Van Gogh:
“In spite of everything, I shall rise again; I will take up my pencil, which I have forsaken in my great discouragement, and I will go on with my drawing.”
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