Casey Etherton – Texaco Children’s Art Competition Winner

A portrait of the artist as a Young Man: Casey Etherton at work and his award winning work: ‘Kevin in the Pink’ which will be exhibited throughout the county over the coming months.

Casey Etherton is a talented young artist from Caherdaniel who recently won first prize in the 16 – 18 years category in the Texaco Children’s Arts Competition.

Times being what they are, Casey was unable to enjoy his success in the usual way as Covid-19 safety measures meant the awards ceremony couldn’t go ahead.

However, friends and family in Kerry are determined to let Casey’s success shine in his home county.

Tour of The County

Casey’s winning painting Kevin In The Pink will go on a tour of the county in February and March. A number of art galleries around the county have generously made space available in their windows for the award-winning work so passers-by on essential travel or exercising within their 5k zone can stop and admire the painting.

It’s an amazing opportunity for me to have my work shown like this,” says Casey. “I hope it encourages people to paint, especially during these tough times.”

Starting in Killarney

Starting in Killarney at Killarney Art Gallery from February 1st – 7th and then moving on to the Greenland Lane in Dingle from 8th – 13th February and The Purcell Gallery in Kenmare from the 15th – 20th.

The John Hurley Gallery, on Denny Street, Tralee will host the work from the 22nd – 27th February and it will then be on display at the Olive Stack Gallery, Listowel from 1st – 6th March.

“I am glad to display such an accomplished piece of work,” says John Hurley, a sentiment of support echoed by Olive Stack: “Congratulations to Casey. I am delighted to display his painting on the gallery window.”

Talent Here in Kerry

“I would like to offer my congratulations to Casey; it is wonderful to see such talent here in Kerry,” said the Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr. Patrick Connor-Scarteen.

“Credit must also be given to the great support from the community to host this tour – artists are a crucial part of our society and the value of their work is immeasurable.”

Leaving Cert Student

Since winning the competition Casey has been studying for his Leaving Cert and compiling his portfolio for future arts studies that he hopes to pursue.

Before this lock-down he went back to his old primary school, Scoil Crohan Naofa in Caherdaniel, where he received an award and drawings done by the schoolchildren, a new generation inspired by creativity.

Adhere to Restrictions

If any other art venues or galleries in other parts of the county are interested in hosting Kevin In The Pink by Casey Etherton please contact Johnny Maguire at info@bricin.ie

Please adhere to Covid-19 level 5 restrictions when viewing the painting and maintain a two-metre distance between people at all times.

You can contact The Maine Valley Post on…Anyone in The Maine Valley Post catchment area who would like to send us news and captioned photographs for inclusion can send them to: jreidy@mainevalleypost.com  Queries about advertising and any other matters regarding The Maine Valley Post can also be sent to that address or just ring: 087 23 59 467.