Beirut explosions 'left city on its knees' - Burren artist Richard Hearns

A Burren artist has disclosed his feelings on the recent Beirut explosion which took place on August 4th, 2020, where a large amount of ammonium nitrate caused 192 deaths and over 6,500 injuries.

Beirut born contemporary artist, Richard Hearns. Brought into the world in the capital city of Lebanon, Richard's story begins in the 1980s during the strife of civil war, where Frank, his guide and soon to be adopted father was serving as a UN Peacekeeper for the Irish Defence Forces as a UNTSO staff officer.

Growing up in Malahide, Dublin, Richard enjoyed a happy childhood, afforded the freedom of being raised in a seaside village, spending his days 'as most Irish young boys do', playing sports with his local clubs.