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Arts Center show opens sans artist

February 16, 2011

By Staff Reporter

By Patrick Markey

It had all the trappings of a New York City art opening: Wine, cheese, a sprinkling of local talent, and, of course, a room full of art.

All except the artist.

The exhibition of County Newry sculptor Raymond Watson opened at New York’s Irish Arts Center on Thursday, but he missed out on his first overseas show. Instead, he spent the week waiting in Northern Ireland to hear whether American immigration officials will let him enter the United States.

A former blanket protester who had been imprisoned in the Maze until 1989, Watson was denied entrance to the U.S. because of a 15-year-old block on his passport because of his conviction.

Congressman Ben Gilman’s office has been in touch with the Watson family and is working to help him enter the United States in time for the exhibition. Rep. Peter King is also assisting the family, the Newry man’s relatives said.

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But even without him, Watson’s exhibition met with praise as visitors who wandered through the handsome wooden carvings arrayed in the center’s theater and lobby. The pieces cover a range: Stunning carved faces peeking from polished wooden surfaces share space with a mermaid’s tresses and a detailed, clasping hand.

Three pieces were sold within 10 minutes. Half of the exhibition’s 23 pieces were taken by the end of the evening. Watson’s mother, Phyllis, read a few words from the artist in his absence.

Commenting on President Clinton’s remarks that Northern Ireland’s Troubles should be put into the past, Watson said that advice should equally apply to the U.S.’ own immigration services.

"It’s been a success, but obviously we’re disappointed Raymond wasn’t here. But we may hold another small opening when he gets here," said Sharon Turley, the center’s gallery director.

Watson’s work draws it’s inspiration not only from the texture and shape of the raw material, but also from the myths and literature of Ireland. He drew heavily from the poems of Nobel laureate Seamus Heaney for this exhibition — the poet’s words rest beneath each piece.

The exhibition is open for the next six weeks. The Irish Arts Center is at 553 West 51st St., between 10th and 11th Avenues, in New York City. For details, call (212) 581-4125.

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