‘World renowned’ artist commences new public artwork on wall of longstanding Armagh business – Armagh I

Armagh has welcomed a world renowned artist to commence a new public art project in the City as part of the Townscape Heritage Scheme.

This exciting new project aims to breath new life into the city by celebrating Armagh’s unique heritage and identity through art.

The mural will be located off Scotch Street, on the side of the TG Hawthorne retail building and will be created by internationally renowned street artist, Fintan Magee.

His passion for art was sparked at a young age, influenced by his creative upbringing — his mother an architect and father a sculptor originally from Northern Ireland.

Fintan has created magnificent murals across the world including Australia, Canada, Rome, London and at the old Army Barracks in Ebrington, Londonderry/Derry.

Inspired by a 1952 photograph from the Ernest Scott Collection at Armagh County Museum, the mural will portray the ‘The Dawn Trio’, three ladies who performed a close harmony at Armagh City Hall during a local concert.

Magee has collaborated with Armagh Theatre Company to recreate the image, using locally sourced window glass to symbolically connect the past and present, and reflect the architectural heritage of the city.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray, commented: “The mural project is a vibrant celebration of Armagh’s rich heritage, creativity, and community spirit.

“They give a voice to local people and bring our shared history to life in a way that is both meaningful and visually inspiring. Together, they help create a high-quality environment that supports the town’s long-term economic growth.”

The mural project follows a public consultation, which included an online survey and in-person engagement with local groups. Feedback revealed strong public interest in themes such as Armagh’s medieval past, arts, culture and spirituality.

Darren Rice, Northern Ireland Committee Member for The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “This new, heritage mural project is a creative opportunity to connect people, places and stories.

“It’s great that through consultation, local people have been able to share aspects of heritage that resonate with them and see this come to life through the two commissions.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to invest in several Townscape Heritage projects in the area and have made a further commitment to invest in the Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon Borough Council area through our Heritage Places initiative.”

Mairead Duffy, Southern Regional College, expressed her excitement for the project: “The students and I are thrilled to have this opportunity to meet such a world-renowned artist and gain deeper insight into his creative process, both for this mural and his wider body of work.

“It’s an unforgettable experience for our students studying Level 2 Creative Arts and Digital Technologies Traineeship.”

Philip Hawthorne, TG Hawthorne, commented: “We’re delighted to be part of this project, proudly hosting this piece of public art on the side wall of our retail shop.

“The artwork creates a symbolic bridge between past and present, honouring Armagh’s architectural heritage while reflecting the creativity and resilience of our community.

“Beyond its artistic value, the mural brings a vibrant, welcoming feel to the town centre — adding colour, character, and a renewed sense of pride in our shared spaces.”

As part of the £6.3m Armagh Townscape Heritage Scheme, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and private property owners, 11 properties have been transformed bringing them back into sustainable use.

Along with educational outreach programmes, the public art project is set to complete the scheme while creating vibrancy to the streetscape of Armagh.

For more information about Armagh Townscape Heritage programme visit – armaghcityth.com.

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