A SPECIAL evening of song, stories and interviews in memory of the late renowned local artist Eddie O’Kane has been held.
Mr O’Kane, who passed away last year, cultivated a lifelong interest in the social, historical, and literary past of Lifford and neighbouring Strabane.
The event, held in the Alley Theatre in Strabane, coincided with an exhibition in the gallery curated by his son, David O’Kane and included contributions from Eddie’s children, grandchildren, relations, friends and collaborators.
Eddie’s daughter Marianne said she appreciated the chance to sing some of her father’s favourite songs at the event.
“We are grateful to Louise and all the staff at the Alley for the opportunity to celebrate the life and work of my father at the tribute evening on October 5.
“It was wonderful to have films made by Eamon and David, short talks by Helen Meehan, Bridgeen Rutherford, Maurice McGrath and Margaret Simms with live music by Cathal Gallagher.
“I also loved singing some of Daddy’s favourite songs with Amy and Bronwen.
“It has been a journey for us as a family to deal with our loss but the evening demonstrated the support of our friends, relations, neighbours and Eddie’s colleagues from Donegal Historical Society, the Federation for Ulster Local Studies, Strabane Historical Society and ATU Donegal.”
Alley Theatre Manager, Louise Boyce described the event as a fitting tribute.
“We are delighted to have facilitated the celebration of Eddie O Kane and his contribution to arts, culture and heritage here in Strabane
“Eddie, working alongside the Strabane History Society, was instrumental in the planning of the Flann O’Brien product that is under development for the Strabane Visitor Information Centre for 2024.
“It was a very fitting tribute and recognition organised by his daughter Marianne and son David.”
Eddie O’Kane served as president of the Donegal Historical Society (1999-2001) and on the Executive for many years.
He was passionately involved in history, art and education and promoted the Schools’ Essay Competition and represented the Donegal
Historical Society on the Federation of Ulster Local Studies, where he served as Vice-Chairman from 2002 -2004 Chairman from 2004 -2005.
Actively involved in the Donegal Archaeological Survey Group, he helped saved Lifford Courthouse from demolition and was a committee member for the updated publication of the Donegal Book of Honour for which he was treasurer from 2001 -2006.
He lectured at LYIT (now ATU Donegal) from 1975-2009 and his teaching in fine art, computing and multimedia was inspirational for several generations of students.
Eddie also conducted several surveys of Historical Heritage Assets for Northern Ireland Environment Link along with his daughter Marianne.
He conducted extensive research on Cavanacor House where along with his wife Joanna he established a museum and gallery which was open from 1990-2020.
The exhibition in the Alley curated by Eddie’s son David continues until Friday, October 20.
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