Back on the River is an exhibition of two sets of paintings by Omagh artist Gerry Bradley and can be seen in the Gallery at Strule Arts Centre from Friday, April 4 until Wednesday, April 23. It showcases 50 new works.

This exhibition is interesting as it presents two distinctively different sets of paintings: the first set is what we have come to expect from the artist – landscape based work that celebrates the town and district of Omagh. The second set of paintings are quite different and use a more contemporary approach with very definite abstract qualities. What is common to all of the work is typically strong use of colour and light.

The 'semi-abstract' works, as the artist calls them, are generally small works but what they lack in scale they more than make up for in intensity. Figurative images are used to form interesting and dramatic compositions that have been painted and over painted until the final outcome is achieved. Layers of paint are clearly visible providing evidence of experimentation and rejection before a final state of acceptance has been achieved by the artist.

It is more than 20 years since Gerry Bradley had his first one-man show in Omagh. He has shown many times since and is best known locally for his landscape work. An artist colleague recently remarked about his work, "They're not just landscapes...." How true this is. These paintings are much more. They are sophisticated and mature works that use the imagery and tools of landscape painting as a vehicle that allows the artist to compose and create in this highly individual style.

It has also been said of these works that they have a strong sense of place, that place being home. The artist will tell you that he is a proud son of Omagh and is always pleased to hear that someone recognises in his work that sense of pride in his hometown.

In keeping with the title of the show there are a number of river-based paintings on display, The Stone Bridge, Bells Bridge and Abbey Bridge all feature; other areas represented include Knockmoyle, Gortin, Cranny, Glenhordial and Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo.

What about the title? Back on the River, the artist explains. "When I was asked to exhibit in the new arts centre I was naturally very pleased. I had one set of paintings already complete and had no major artistic commitments.

"I was however put under a bit of pressure to come up with a title for the show and a paragraph of introductory text that would be included in the programme. We confirmed that I would do the show on a Monday; I was then told that I had to provide the blurb by Friday.

"My thoughts on the title never strayed far from the river. For me the single most exciting thing about the arts centre was the new set of views that had been created. The first time I crossed the footbridge or looked out from the gallery or from the top floor was indeed memorable and exciting.

"For me the river is a wonderful place. As a child and in my youth many happy hours were spent fishing on the banks that now support the arts centre. Back on the River was always the obvious choice."

* 'Contemporary' pieces by the artists can be seen at gbradley.wordpress.com