Northern Ireland

Martin McGuinness Peace Foundation launches new portrait on fourth anniversary of republican figurehead's death

Martin McGuinness's widow Bernie and their son Fiachra with Tony Bell's new portrait of the former deputy first minster
Martin McGuinness's widow Bernie and their son Fiachra with Tony Bell's new portrait of the former deputy first minster Martin McGuinness's widow Bernie and their son Fiachra with Tony Bell's new portrait of the former deputy first minster

ARTIST Tony Bell has created a new portrait of the late Martin McGuinness to support the peace foundation established in the former deputy first minister's name.

The portrait was launched online last night by Martin McGuinness Peace Foundation on the fourth anniversary of the republican figurehead's death.

Speaking afterwards, foundation spokesperson Paul Kavanagh said the late Mr McGuinness's family were delighted with Mr Bell's portrait, which depicts the one-time Mid Ulster MP in both his early and latter days.

“Tony also produced the portrait of Martin that is now displayed in Stormont and his latest work – capturing images of Martin that we are all familiar with - is another stunning creation," he said.

Tony Bell's new portrait of former deputy first minster Martin McGuinnes
Tony Bell's new portrait of former deputy first minster Martin McGuinnes Tony Bell's new portrait of former deputy first minster Martin McGuinnes

“We would very much like to thank him for his hard work which will be of great support to the foundation which will benefit from sales of the limited-edition prints.”

Mr Kavanagh also acknowledged the many tributes that continue to be made to the late deputy first minister.

“Since Martin’s death many people have paid tribute to him and some have sought to honour him through song and imagery," he said.

"In some cases, Martin’s family has endorsed or approved those tributes but going forward, they have asked that family endorsement should be pursued through the Peace Foundation. We would obviously urge people to respect those wishes.”"

:: Prints of the limited edition portrait are available priced at £100 by emailing admin@martinmcguinnesspeacefoundation.org