Neal Greig- Out There: Gormleys Belfast

Gormleys is delighted to present an exhibition of new works by acclaimed Irish landscape painter Neal Greig, taking place in Gormleys Belfast from 6th to 23rd June.

Widely recognised for his expressive brushwork and powerful use of colour, Greig’s paintings capture the shifting atmosphere and elemental energy of the Irish landscape. Rooted in the tradition of en plein air painting, his practice involves working directly within the landscape itself, responding instinctively to changing light, weather and terrain.

This latest body of work reflects Greig’s continued exploration of Ireland’s rugged coastlines and remote environments, from the Atlantic swells of Inis Oírr to tidal shorelines and ancient geological formations. Working on location and often on a large scale, he creates richly textured paintings that blur the boundaries between representation and abstraction, conveying both the physical and emotional experience of place.

Greig paints landscapes and seascapes in oil, with layers of paint applied in heavy impasto to give texture and movement to his scenes. He paints mainly outdoors from life, and his work is deeply concerned with the interplay between nature and light. 

"I document the light, space and texture, spontaneously painting the changes, observing and marking the passing of time. At times a vigorous approach is employed, capturing a sense of urgency in an effort to catch the changing light. Working outside brings an instinctive aspect to my painting."

The exhibition highlights Greig’s distinctive ability to distil fleeting moments in nature into dynamic, immersive compositions. Through layered impasto surfaces and gestural mark-making, the works evoke the rhythm, movement and atmosphere of the landscape rather than simply depicting a scene.

Art critic Aidan Dunne of The Irish Times has described Greig’s work as:

“Outstanding, closely observed landscapes that maintain a spontaneous, energised engagement with the atmospherics of each location.”