Saved from the re-cycling bin by photographer Noel Quinn, this selection of 36 of 130 images, offer us a glimpse into the more personal sides of Welch and Philips. These never seen before non- commissioned slides, show them with friends and colleagues in the Belfast Naturalist Field Club. From strange geological structures on Arran, to Holy Wells in Kenmare, this exhibition offers a rare insight into their curious pastimes.

A major find in the history of Irish photography, this collection surfaced as a result of my recent exhibition, "The life’s work of an unknown photographer." I was contacted by several people who, having read the press coverage, presented me with collections of glass plate negatives and lantern slides to see if they could be restored and exhibited in a similar manner. The most interesting of these collections was this rare treasure trove of Welch and Phillips lantern slides bought in a house clearance sale, some 30 years ago.

It has been my privilege to work along with Frankie Quinn in the restoration process in bringing life to yet another piece of photographic history, which would have remained boxed and unseen if it were not for the existence of The Red Barn Gallery.

Noel R. Quinn