FORMER EU commissioner Pádraig Flynn is to realise a long-standing ambition in April by exhibiting a selection of his paintings in his native Castlebar.
At his own request, the Linenhall Arts Centre is to mount a selection of his works, mostly landscapes, from April 4th to 11th.
Mr Flynn's daughter, Beverley, who succeeded him in Dáil Éireann, will open the exhibition. Although a final selection has not yet been made, it is sure to feature what is generally regarded by experts as his best work, a painting of the Clapper Bridge, Louisburgh, believed to be one of the oldest bridges in Co Mayo.
The late Charles Haughey, an art lover and admirer of the Clapper Bridge work, had set his heart on the painting but was unable to acquire it as it was a gift for someone else.
Mr Flynn, who began painting at the age of 12, describes himself as "an interested amateur" who finds the hobby extremely therapeutic.
In the arts centre's latest bulletin, the former EU commissioner and minister says he greatly appreciates the opportunity to show some of his paintings, none of which is for sale.