Prolific painter and educator of artists – The Irish News

Belfast artist Ray Duncan has been remembered as a “prolific painter, educator and founding member of artist studios across the city” following his death, aged 85.

The Arts Council of Northern Ireland paid tribute to the former teacher, describing how he had helped shape Belfast’s arts community in difficult times.

“He attended classes at Belfast Art College under John Luke and Terry Flanagan and taught art at schools and colleges across the city – his dedication to teaching reflected his belief in the transformative power of creativity,” it said.

“He was part of the May Street studio group in the 1960s and organised ‘House Shows’ in artists’ homes when venues were scarce.

“He contributed to the Ulster Arts Club from the 1970s, organising exhibitions when artists such as Colin Middleton Raymond Piper and Basil Blackshaw were frequenting it.

“He helped develop the Elmwood Gallery at the club, which further expanded opportunities for artists to exhibit their work.

“In fact, right up to 1996 Ray was collaborating and developing space for other artists.

“He was one of the founders of Creative Exchange Studios, now based in the Portview Trade Centre, Belfast.

“In recent years he showed regularly at The Engine Room Gallery and through Gallery 545.”

Abstract painting was a common thread in his work and the Arts Council said he was “interested in the viewer entering the world of the painting, where something of a transcendental journey might take place”.

“Ray leaves us with a wonderful legacy; his paintings, his students, and the institutions he helped build, will continue to feel his influence for years to come.”

Ray Duncan died peacefully at his home on November 13, with his family notice saying “he was in a room with his wife Sara surrounded by his paintings with a view over the garden”.

“He had a long life filled with making art and encouraging others to make art.

“He will be sadly missed by family, friends and fellow artists.”

A son of Alfred and Alice Duncan and brother of Gladys, he is also survived by his children John and Catherine and grandchildren.

** The Irish News publishes a selection of readers’ obituaries each Saturday. Families or friends are invited to send in accounts of anyone they feel has made a contribution to their community or simply led an interesting or notable life. Call Aeneas Bonner on 028 9040 8360 or email a.bonner@irishnews.com.