Joanne is just getting STArt-ed

For artist and former Miss Northern Ireland, Joanne Salley, the opening of STArt – a new gallery and creative hub in Linen Green, Dungannon, is more than just the launch of a business.

It’s a tribute to her beloved late mother and a chance to inspire creativity in others.

As she prepares to welcome visitors to a launch event on Mother’s Day, Sunday, March 30, Joanne wants to celebrate the journey that led her back home to Dungannon, the lessons learned along the way, and the people who have shaped her artistic path.

Joanne’s love for art began in childhood, sketching on any surface she could find—walls, hands, scraps of paper. Encouraged by her school art teacher, she pursued formal training, receiving offers from top art colleges in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and London before ultimately choosing to stay closer to home at Ulster University.

But her journey took an unexpected turn when she won the Miss Northern Ireland title in 1998, pressing pause on her studies for a whirlwind year in the spotlight.

“I was a tomboy at heart—my childhood was all faded flares, a cowboy shirt, and a mini Massey Ferguson tractor,” she laughs. “Winning Miss Northern Ireland wasn’t my dream, but it taught me a lot about how society views beauty.”

Returning to complete her degree, Joanne channelled these experiences into her coursework, exploring themes of identity and perception. Her career took her from teaching at the prestigious Harrow School in London to the world of high-end art sales, private commissions, and large-scale murals. Yet, despite her success, the dream of owning her own studio never left her mind.

 In 2020, Joanne began laying the groundwork for STArt, but when her mother Norinda was diagnosed with cancer, she put everything on hold. She returned home to Dungannon to care for her, cherishing their final months together. After her mother’s passing in 2022, she knew it was time to bring her vision to life.

“My mum was my greatest supporter. She encouraged every creative pursuit, not just mine but everyone’s,” Joanne shares. “Opening STArt on Mother’s Day is my way of honouring her and all the mothers who sacrifice so much for their children’s dreams.”

Recognising that her father also needed family close by, Joanne decided to establish STArt in her hometown, while continuing to teach part-time in London, where she has built a dedicated student base over the past 25 years.

STArt is more than just a gallery—it’s a space designed to ignite artistic passion in people of all ages and abilities. From painting and drawing to clay work and printmaking, Joanne plans to offer a variety of courses and workshops, fostering a community where creativity can flourish.

I want STArt to be a place where people feel welcome, whether they’ve never picked up a paintbrush or they’ve been creating for years,” she says. “It’s about making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone.”

Joanne wants STArt to be a hub for artistic exchange, hosting exhibitions, artist talks, and special events that celebrate the wealth of talent on this island.

To mark its grand opening, STArt will host a special event on Sunday, March 30, from 12 PM to 8 PM. Visitors can book a slot to try their hand at pottery—a perfect opportunity to unwind, get creative, and share a memorable experience with a loved one.

 Join Joanne on Mother’s Day and be part of the beginning of something special. For more information, visit STArt’s Instagram at www.instagram.com/letstartwithart or email jo@joannesalleyart.com