An Aladdin's Cave of art, in the heart of Co. Down

I started CoCo Bleu in 2022, like a lot of people, it was born out of a desire to do something different on the back of a tough couple of years. When I launched my business socials, naturally my following and followers, fell into the genre of homes & interiors. The most comforting and probably cocooned environment you can find yourself in on social media. I am immersed in a world filled with the most incredible homes, lovingly built & restored such as @our.pretty.old.home & @sixatno.5. A fabulous selection of home owners, entrepreneurs & highly talented people & creatives, such as local artist Jacqueline Rooney.

I came across Jacqueline's work after following Paul Moneypenny, the designer who rose to fame on the BBC's Interior Design Masters. Paul is a huge fan of Jacqueline's and when I saw some of her paintings I was blown away by the vibrancy, joy & her use of intense colours.

Jacqueline's paintings are inspirational & dramatic, stunning sea & landscapes, no doubt inspired by the wonderful location of her gallery, the picturesque village of Rostrevor, nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains on the shores of Carlingford Lough.

The gallery is spread over two floors and several rooms, it was buzzing with people, surprising, given it was a Wednesday morning. The gallery is a treasure trove, not only for Jacqueline's stunning works of art, but also her jaw dropping furniture and soft furnishings. The gallery also showcases local artisans, with beautiful pottery, cards, lighting, there are even adorable gnomes.

I spent over an hour studying all the paintings and prints before I decided which piece I loved the most, and believe me, it was really hard. Jacqueline was present and quite honestly her personality matches her art. She has the brightest smile and was so friendly and welcoming to everyone.

I chose 'Silent Symphony' I kept being drawn back to this piece, I'm so pleased I chose it. Now it is hung, I can't help but stand in front of it, absorbing the depth and vibrancy.

With names such as Dance Of The Flowers, Rise & Electric Dreams, Jacqueline's vision & energy is so beautifully portrayed in all that she creates.

Visit the gallery at 8 Mary St, Rostrevor, Newry BT34 3AY jacquelinerooney.com I defy you to come home empty handed!

Nestled between the foothills of the Mournes & Carlingford Lough is somewhere truly special..

'Silent Symphony'