The Irish News

27 October, 2016 by Jenny Lee

Jenny Lee puts performers and artists on the spot about what really matters to them. This week, Belfast sculptor Sinead McKeever

1. When did you think about art as a career and what were your first steps into it?

I’ve always enjoyed making art. I initially studied fashion, but realised my passion was for fine art and I completed a Masters in 2008. I became a member of Queen Street Studios in 2009. Since graduating I have exhibited extensively in the UK and Ireland.

2. Best gigs you’ve been to?

Mercury Rev at Strand Arts Centre last November was an amazing gig. Julian Cope in the Empire, where he was sporting a Mohican, face paint and strutting around in platforms. Also Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers at Mandela Hall, Queen’s University Belfast, was quite an experience.

3. Fantasy wedding/birthday party band?

Blondie.

4. The record you’d take to a desert island?

Scritti Politti’s White Bread, Black Beer. I’d be happy with any of their albums.

5. And the book?

The Adventures of Augie March by Saul Bellow, just because it’s the next book on my list.

6. Top three films?

Withnail and I. It has a brilliant script that I never tire of quoting and a fantastic musical score. Manon des Sources is a gripping tale of Manon’s triumph over loss, greed and revenge, set in a beautiful village in Provence and Nostalgia because it’s like a moving painting.

7.Worst film you’ve seen?

St Trinian’s (2007).

8. Favourite authors?

Charles Dickens, Fyodor Dostoyevsky and Seamus Heaney.

9. Sport you most enjoy and top team?

I enjoy walking Soda, our dog. It’s not really a sport fan though I enjoy supporting the Irish rugby team.

10. Ideal holiday destination?

Barcelona, Spain.

11. Pet hate?

People who litter.

12. What’s your favourite:

Dinner? Fish and chips.

Dessert? Chocolate pudding with vanilla ice cream.

Drink? Coffee, strong, two sugars and milk.

13. Who is your best friend and how do you know each other?

After my husband and family, Tanachat Bell. We met when our children were in Queen’s creche over 20 years ago. She’s such a lovely person.

14. Is there a God?

I think it’s important to respect all spiritual beliefs.

:: Tipping Point by Siobhan McKeever and Kevin Killen is currently showing at Belfast’s Queen Street Studios as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival and continues until November 18. Queenstreetstudios.net

Tipping Point continues at QSS Gallery until 19th November 2016
More of Sinead’s work can be found on her page here