My Weekend: Out on the water with friends, under a starry sky, toes dipped in warm water

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your work; 

I am a visual artist living in Midleton. I was born in Jersey in the Channel Islands and moved with my family to Ireland in the mid 70’s. I left again in the mid 80’s and travelled a lot on lots of great adventures. I spent many years living and travelling on a small sailboat in central America and northwest Caribbean.

I returned to Cork in 2004 when my daughter was born and graduated from Crawford College of Art & Design in 2012.

As an artist, I am constantly exploring different mediums and ways of expression, working locally with schools, festivals and fellow creators. I am one of the founding members and co-ordinators of Mideton Arts Festival.

Here in East Cork I am lucky to be surrounded by many amazing artists and we often exchange ideas and work on joint projects. 

I love how we continuously inspire each other.

I think art has a unique power to connect with others. It is a beautiful way to bring people together.

What is your ideal way to spend a Friday night? 

Out on the water with friends, under a starry sky, toes dipped in warm water.

Lie ins or up with the lark.. which is it for you?

Depends, lie in if I’ve been up late but up early if adventure’s to be had.

Does work creep into your weekend at all?

I m self employed so yes. I don’t mind though, I’m always taking photos, drawing, doodling , painting, making stuff, making plans, collecting materials and ideas.

If money was no object where would you head to on a weekend city break? And who would you bring with you?

Venice, I'd bring my daughter. I went last year for a few days and was blown away, it's so rich in art and culture and I loved all the boats and waterways.

Closer to home, is there some place you like to head to recharge the batteries? 

Yes, East Ferry has a special place in my heart, its peaceful and beautiful.

Do you like to catch up with family/friends at the weekend?

Yes, I come from a big family and most of them live nearby, which is great, we see quite a lot of each other and I live in town so lots of friends around.

Do you get to indulge any hobbies? Even as a spectator?

I love to go slow rowing in my dinghy, especially when the water is still and calm with a flask of coffee and my pens and paper. I don’t need much, I can be very happy when I’m beach combing and dumpster diving.

Entertain or be entertained? If it's the latter do you have a signature dish?

I really enjoy feasting with friends on good food.

We have so many places to eat out in Cork - where are your go to spots for coffee/ lunch/ special meal?

I am vegetarian - Izz cafe, Umi falafel, Loving salads for lunch. In Midleton, Roasties has delicious fresh tasty food.

Sunday night comes around too fast.. how do you normally spend it?

A walk by the river with my dog then maybe a movie at home, depends really on the time of year.

What time does your alarm clock go off on Monday morning?

Mondays I start work in East Cork Music Project at 9am so up at 8am, plenty of time for a coffee.

Anything else you are up to right now...

I am currently preparing for my upcoming solo exhibition which will run from July 20 to 29 in My Place Centre in Midleton. 

I’ll be exhibiting a broad range of my artwork, so I m busy getting paintings, drawings, ceramics, animation, and sculpture ready. 

I have poured my heart and soul into this collection, and I am really eager to share it with the community.

The opening night on July 19 will have music and refreshments and I'm hoping it will be an opportunity not only to show the art but also to build connections with fellow artists and enthusiasts.