Person to Person: 'Creating paintings that connect emotionally with people makes me very happy'

Tell us about yourself:

I’m a Cork-based artist known for my vibrant contemporary paintings inspired by the Irish coastline, city life, florals and moments of everyday beauty. Colour and atmosphere are at the heart of my work and I love creating paintings that bring warmth, energy and emotion into people’s homes. I love how colour affects mood. It can make people smile and completely change the feeling of a space.

Interestingly, I didn’t formally study art. I originally started going to art classes as a social outlet once my children got older, and from there I began selling original paintings through Etsy before eventually setting up my own website. What started as something creative and enjoyable gradually grew into a career and I’ve now been selling my work professionally for over 13 years.

I’ve been very lucky to work with some wonderful Cork galleries and I’m incredibly grateful for the support they’ve given me throughout the years, especially Castlemartyr House Gallery, The Boathouse Gallery, The Loft Gallery and The Market Gallery. My work is now displayed in galleries around Ireland as well as in private collections internationally. I’m also the Irish artist behind the Ravensburger Irish jigsaw puzzle series, which brought my work to a worldwide audience.

At the moment, I’m continuing to develop new collections while preparing for upcoming exhibitions and Art Source later in the year.

Where do you live?

I’m based on the north side of Cork city, which has always been home and a huge source of inspiration for my work.

Family?

I’m married and have three adult children, who I’m very proud of. There’s a lot of creativity in the family, although the others lean more towards music while I embraced paintbrushes!

I had a lovely childhood growing up in Cork as one of three daughters, and some of my happiest memories are family holidays in Redbarn, Youghal and Garryvoe. I think those memories of light, colour, and the Irish coast still influence my paintings today.

Earliest childhood memory?

I went to St Vincent’s Primary School and I always remember being surrounded by paper, crayons and markers. As I got a bit older, sketchpads and marker sets were always top of my Christmas list. That was really when I was in my element and, looking back now, the beginnings of the artist in me were probably already there.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

My husband and I have done a bit of travelling over the last few years, and one place that really stayed with me was Rome. I had never been before and found it absolutely fascinating. Everywhere you walk there is history, incredible architecture, and a real sense of the lives that were lived there centuries ago. The scale, texture, and detail of everything was amazing.

Favourite TV programme?

I love watching Portrait Artist Of The Year and Landscape Artist Of The Year. I find it incredible watching artists create such amazing work within just a few hours, especially the portrait artists. There’s huge skill involved. I do pet portrait commissions myself, so I really appreciate the level of observation and talent that goes into that type of work.

Favourite radio show?

I actually listen to a lot of podcasts while painting. I love hearing people talk about their lives and experiences and I find human stories really intriguing. Long hours in the studio are the perfect time to listen.

Your signature dish if cooking?

To be honest, I’m not a great cook! I’d probably say a curry would be my favourite, but I’m definitely more of a quick meals person.

Favourite restaurant?

I actually prefer eating at home. I really enjoy the weekends when my husband does the cooking and I can just sit back, relax, and enjoy.

Last book you read?

Because I spend so much time in the studio, I probably don’t read as much as I’d like to. Podcasts tend to satisfy that need for me instead. I love listening to people talking about life, creativity, and experiences while I paint.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

Music is always part of my studio environment, and it really affects the mood and energy of what I’m painting. I love upbeat, happy play-lists, especially when I’m working on vibrant florals. If I’m concentrating on a more detailed or serious painting, I tend to slow things down and listen to quieter, more meditative music.

Do you have a pet?

We had a Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier for 14 and a half years but, unfortunately, we lost her late last year. She was really the centre of the house and had such a huge presence. You never felt on your own when she was around.

Morning person or night owl?

Definitely a morning person. Natural daylight is very important for my work, so I tend to get up, have breakfast, and start painting early in the day while the light is at its best. I usually take my breaks later on in the day instead.

Your proudest moment?

Definitely being chosen as the Irish artist for the Ravensburger Irish jigsaw puzzle series. Seeing my paintings reproduced as puzzles and appear in shops was incredibly exciting. Suddenly, I was being interviewed by newspapers, radio stations, and even RTÉ came to my house. It all felt surreal. Seeing people connect with the paintings in that way and knowing they were reaching homes all over the world was very special. I think what made it even more meaningful was seeing how proud my parents were. They always encouraged my creativity growing up, so it gave them something exciting to share and celebrate too.

Spendthrift or saver?

Probably a bit of both, depending on what it is. I would never compromise on the quality of the materials I use because people are investing in the colour, vibrancy, and presentation of the work, right down to the sleek white framing. Quality really matters to me.

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

I’d love to see more opportunities and public support for artists in Cork, especially outdoor art events and spaces where artists can exhibit their work and connect directly with the public. Cork is such a creative city, and I think there’s huge potential for more visibility for the arts.

What makes you happy?

Creating paintings that connect emotionally with people makes me very happy. I love hearing that a painting has brightened someone’s home or reminded them of a special memory or feeling. I also love those moments in the studio when a painting suddenly comes together and becomes more than you imagined it could be.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who brought colour, warmth, and positivity into people’s lives through my artwork, and created paintings that made people feel something emotionally.

What else are you up to at the moment?

I’m working on a number of new paintings and developing new series in the studio. I’m also preparing for upcoming exhibitions and Art Source in the RDS later in the year, which is always an exciting event to work towards. See: HelenCondonArt.com

• Helen Condon is one of the artists taking part in the incognito 2026 secret art sale on Wednesday, May 20. In aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, each original postcard artwork costs €75. To view the collection, visit www.incognito.ie