Rachael Johnson’s Pareidolia Exhibition Opens in Omagh

Fermanagh-born artist Rachael Johnson has unveiled her latest solo exhibition, Pareidolia, at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh.

The exhibition officially opened on Friday 1 May 2026 and will run through to Saturday 30 May 2026, offering visitors a chance to explore a deeply personal and visually rich collection of mixed media artwork.

A Journey Through Art and Memory

Born in Leeds in 1962 and raised in Enniskillen, Johnson left home in 1980 to study Fine Art. Her career has taken her across the globe, with time spent travelling and working in regions including:

• North Africa
• South and Central America
• Australia
• India
• South-East Asia

These experiences have significantly influenced her artistic direction, particularly her interest in ancient traditions, ritual practices, and the healing power of art.

Now based in Derry, Johnson continues to work as both an exhibiting artist and a registered art psychotherapist.

What Is Pareidolia?

The title Pareidolia refers to the human tendency to find meaning or familiar shapes in abstract or random imagery.

Johnson explains her creative process as intuitive and exploratory:

“I never know in advance what I’m going to paint. I apply, rearrange, remove and reapply layers of colour and texture with no direction in mind until something resonates.”

Her work evolves organically, drawing on sensory memory to reveal hidden forms, symbols, and “shapeshifters” within each piece.

Mixed Media with Depth and Texture

Johnson’s artwork combines a wide range of materials, including:

• Oil and water-based paints
• Inks, pastels, and charcoal
• Handmade and textured papers
• Natural fibres and fabrics
• Organic materials
• Elements such as metal, stone, wood, and glass

This layered approach creates visually complex pieces that invite viewers to interpret their own meanings.

Established Career and Recognition

Johnson has exhibited widely across Ireland, with recent showcases including:

• Clinton Gallery, Enniskillen
• Red Stables Gallery, Dublin
• Laneway Gallery, Cork

She is also a member of Visual Artists Ireland and holds a Master’s degree in Art Psychotherapy from Cork.

Part of Mental Health Arts Festival 2026

Pareidolia forms part of the Mental Health Arts Festival N.I. 2026, which runs from 8–15 May across Northern Ireland.

The exhibition aligns with the festival’s focus on creativity, wellbeing, and mental health awareness.

Visiting Information

• Location: Strule Arts Centre
• Dates: 1 May – 30 May 2026
• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30am – 5:00pm
• Admission: Free

For more details, visit [Insert Link] or contact the venue directly.

Why You Should Visit

This exhibition offers more than just visual art—it’s an immersive experience into memory, symbolism, and the subconscious. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for something different to do in Omagh this May, Pareidolia provides a thought-provoking cultural outing.