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 colors, 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 combining these two elements—oceanic vibrancy and the calming embrace of the lake—I aim to create a dialogue between energy and serenity. My work is not just a representation of these bodies of water but an emotional journey, inviting each observer to find their own connection to the natural world. Through abstraction, I hope to convey the universal feelings of awe, peace, and wonder that water inspires in us all.

I leave most of my paintings untitled, allowing the viewer to interact with the work without any direction from the artist. Similarly, the works can be turned and hung from any direction, whatever the viewer chooses as their preferred angle.