Noreen Rice (b.1936 Belfast – d.2015 Monaghan) had a fascinating career as an artist. She was known for her unique approach to creating art, only doing so when she felt compelled and never conforming to societal expectations. Rice studied in Paris and at the Geneva Centre for Contemporary Engraving, and her passion for exploration led her to travel extensively, residing in Hong Kong, Paris, and London before eventually returning to Ireland. In 1951, Rice crossed paths with artist Gerard Dillon, who, along with George Campbell, became her mentors for many years. Their influence can be seen in her artistic style. Rice held her first solo exhibition at the British Council in Hong Kong in 1956. During her time in London, she supported herself by working night shifts in the BBC newsroom. In 1963, she traveled to the United States to showcase her work, where she had the opportunity to meet President Kennedy just weeks before his assassination. Throughout her career, her artwork was acquired by numerous prestigious collections, including that of the United Nations. Rice spent the last two decades of her life In County Monaghan. Her final exhibition took place In 2009, more than fifty years after her debut in Hong Kong.
Noreen Rice - Figure on a Beach
