"It might be comforting to suggest and imagine that running a business might be dull and mundane; thirty five years into Camida I can assure you that is far from the truth. Despite this complex background it would appear that I am forever trapped in a continual seeking for diversity. So when one Eugene De Leaster, with whom I am blessed with a long-term eclectic friendship, suggested we form an unconventional informal Clonmel arts group, I was immediately intrigued, enthusiastic and pessimistic. Hence the inception of Random Artists of Tipperary South The pessimism I felt was due to the fragile building blocks for R.A.T.S.’ longevity. A casual, informal amalgamation of artists was not a reliable recipe I felt, for a successful organisation. To my surprise, several years after inception, R.A.T.S., are currently over 20 core members strong with an equal number of peripheral members. Many successful exhibitions have been held at diverse events and multiple locations. The meetings (held alternatively in Phil Carroll’s Pub and somewhat perversely, The Donoghmore Club), are well attended. New R.A.T.S.’ projects are forever being created with guest speakers, an exhibition in Venice no less, and a coffee table book profiling the artists. R.A.T.S.’ has somewhat surprisingly blossomed into a hub of artistic endeavour, social interaction and fun. My pessimism is diminished and I’m now confident of a long, productive and fully successful future for The R.A.T.S."