Tag: Book of Kells

Exhibitions

Winter Exhibit

Sheila

The Swampscott Art Association has just hung a new art exhibit of members’ work at the Lynch Van Otterloo YMCA in Marblehead, which will be on display from January 15 until April 16, 2026. Sit at the nice little tables by the pool, get a cup of coffee and a delicious muffin, and feast your eyes!

My entry in this exhibit is Seamróg, ink & pencil, 11″ x 14″ matted and framed. Seamróg is the Irish Gaelic word for shamrock and it is pronounced the same as the English word. I have drawn this shamrock in the ancient Irish style of Celtic knots. The bright colors and outlines are inspired by the Irish Book of Kells which I was lucky enough to see twice: once in Boston at the Museum of Fine Arts, and again at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland.

I first became interested in this style by looking at my father’s art books. He was born in Ireland and wanted to introduce us to the incredible art and music of his beloved homeland. Drawing the intricate patterns is a peaceful, meditative activity.

I hope that you will have a chance to enjoy this show. I hope you will visit my website, www.SheilaBillings.com to view more of my Celtic and other art creations. May my art bring your heart as much happiness as it has brought to mine.

Uncategorized

Beverly Bootstraps

Sheila

The Frame at 198 is back! 🎨✨ Beverly Bootstraps Thrift Shop’s Art Expo returns on April 7th, and they are excited to showcase local talent once again. I was happy to have my art chosen to join their vibrant community of artists to display my work and support a great cause! The exhibit will be on display at Beverly Bootstraps at 198 Rantoul Street, Beverly, MA from April 7 until the Closing Reception on April 2, 2025.


This semi-annual showcase celebrates creativity with the theme of “Community” for the April 2025 Showcase. It was an opportunity to share my story, connect with fellow artists, and contribute to the important community programs and services of Beverly Bootstraps.

The Community theme was a particular draw for me because I have a long-running connection with Beverly, having been an art teacher at Beverly High School. The high school is a wonderful place with great teachers and enthusiastic students. The artwork that was selected to be part of the exhibit is titled “Celtic Panthers”, ink and colored pencil, matted and framed 12″ x 14″.

My father was born in Ireland, and because of that I became very interested in the ancient Celtic style of drawing. Celtic Panthers shows intertwined stylized panthers — the mascot of Beverly High School — and Celtic knots and symbols. This intricate style of drawing was inspired by the exquisite work of the Irish monks in the Book of Kells, which I was lucky enough to view twice — once at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and again at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland.

I hope you will stop in to enjoy this exhibit of the various works of many local artists. Thanks.

Exhibitions

Becoming Exhibit

Sheila

From the opening reception August 4 until September 9, the Salem Arts Association will feature an exhibit that features artwork inspired by artists’ transformative journeys and acts of becoming.

My drawing juried into the show is titled Celtic Peacocks, pen and colored pencil, 14″ x 18″ matted and framed. It is done in the style of the Book of Kells, and consists of intricate, meticulous knots and bright colors reminiscent of the work done by ancient Irish monks in their stone towers.

The exhibit is open to artists from the community as well as members of the Salem Arts Association. The reception will be held on Friday, August 4 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Salem Arts Association Gallery right beside historic Pickering Wharf on 159 Derby Street, Salem, MA. #SalemArts The reception will include live music by Brian Cogger performing his original compositions, refreshments, and is free and open to the public.

Regular gallery hours are noon until 6:00 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. And when you are visiting our gallery exhibits, do not forget to check out the Gallery Shop on the first floor. It is full of original work by members: jewelry, paintings, clothing, fiber art, ceramics, glass, prints, and more — perfect for gifts, or treat yourself!