Artist

Artist’s statement

I hold a BA Honours in Fine Art, which I received from Limerick School of Art and Design. As an artist, I am deeply inspired by the fluidity and depth of water—both in the vastness of the ocean and the tranquil stillness of a lake nestled in the Irish countryside. My abstract acrylic paintings serve as a meditation on these environments, capturing the essence of movement, light, and emotion that water evokes. Having earned my degree in Sculpture, I approach painting in a sculptural way, building the canvas in layers of paint, water, paint, water, until I feel they are done.

The ocean, with its rhythmic waves and ever-changing colours, inspires a sense of freedom and exploration. In my work, I translate the dynamic energy of the sea into subtle shades, allowing the viewer to feel the pulse of the tides. Each piece reflects the play of light on the water’s surface—a dance of reflections and shadows that invites contemplation.

Conversely, the serene lakes of Ireland bring a different inspiration. Here, I draw from the quiet beauty of still waters, where the landscape is mirrored in a delicate balance. My use of water and paint seeks to evoke the peace and introspection found in these tranquil settings. These paintings invite viewers to pause and reflect, offering a moment of respite from the chaos of everyday life.

In addition to painting, I work with natural slate, creating hand-engraved pieces that connect my practice more tangibly to the Irish landscape. Each slate engraving is a meditative process in itself—etching textures and motifs that reflect themes of nature, memory, and place. The permanence of stone contrasts beautifully with the fluidity of water in my paintings, yet both media share an emotional resonance and a deep reverence for the natural world. My engravings often carry poetic fragments or elemental symbols, adding another layer of reflection and meaning.

In combining these elements—oceanic vibrancy, the calming embrace of the lake, and the grounding solidity of stone—I aim to create a dialogue between energy, serenity, and timelessness. My work is not just a representation of these environments but an emotional journey, inviting each observer to find their own connection to the world around them. Through abstraction and material exploration, I hope to convey the universal feelings of awe, peace, and wonder that nature inspires in us all. Most of the works can be turned and hung from any direction—whatever the viewer chooses as their preferred angle.