Person to Person: 'I grew up in a lively household where creativity and storytelling were part of everyday life'

Tell us about yourself;

I am a West Cork-based artist with over 40 years of painting and exhibiting behind me, creating atmospheric works inspired by the rugged Irish landscape, shifting light and the quiet beauty of everyday moments. I left school at 17 to study Fine Art, followed by a teaching diploma, and while raising my family I continued to paint and undertake commission work, ensuring creativity remained at the heart of my life. My paintings are rooted in a deep connection to place and a love of colour, texture and atmosphere, always seeking to capture not just what we see, but what we feel.

Alongside my painting practice, I run art workshops from White Willow Studio, my working studio in West Cork. What makes these workshops unique is that participants are invited into the artist's own creative space, sharing in the environment where the paintings themselves are made. Designed for both beginners and experienced artists, the workshops are inspiring, creative and relaxed, offering people the opportunity to slow down, reconnect with their creativity and experience the joy of making art in a welcoming and nurturing setting.

Where were you born?

I was born in Cobh, Co. Cork.

Where do you live?

I live a few kilometres from the village of Baltimore in West Cork.

Family?

I grew up as the eldest of eight children, in a busy, lively household where creativity, storytelling and a strong sense of family were part of everyday life. As the eldest of eight, I learned early on the value of community, patience and looking after others – qualities that have shaped both my life and my teaching. 

I am a proud mother of three grown-up children, who have always encouraged and supported my creative journey.

Best friend?

I am very fortunate to have a few amazing friends who have inspired me through their own career paths and who have supported me throughout my creative journey.

I would like to also mention my husband who has encouraged me to be true to myself and gives me space to express myself through my artwork.

Earliest childhood memory?

My earliest memories go back to when I started primary school. I loved to walk to school with the other children on the street. I remember how the older children would call for the younger ones. I feel experiences like this gave us a sense of belonging to a neighbourhood or community.

Person you most admire?

I have enormous admiration for people who volunteer in their communities. Whether it’s Tidy Towns, Community Sheds, twinning groups or local initiatives; these are the people who give so generously of their time and make our towns and villages such special places to live.

Person who most irritates you?

I have little patience for intolerance and for people who are quick to judge. A little kindness, empathy and openness to others goes a long way.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

Our holiday to Scotland and the Isle of Skye remains one of my most memorable trips. It was our first venture after covid restrictions eased, and instead of flying we took the car, feeling a little safer and relishing the freedom of a slower journey.

Scotland completely exceeded my expectations. The landscape was far grander and moodier than I had imagined – vast mountains, dramatic skies and ever-changing light that felt both wild and magical. The drive to the Isle of Skye was unforgettable, with each turn revealing another breathtaking view. It is a very special place, full of atmosphere and beauty, and as an artist I found it bursting with inspiration.

Favourite TV Programme?

I love Slow Horses because it’s all about the characters. They’re complex, quirky and brilliantly written, and even the most flawed among them are deeply human. The writing is exceptional – clever, darkly funny and utterly compelling.

I also love home renovation programmes; ones that stand out are those with the late Hugh Wallace such as The Great House Revival and Home of the Year.

Favourite radio show?

I start most mornings with Marty Whelan on Marty in the Morning on Lyric FM. I love the warmth of his presentation and the wonderful mix of music, which is often the perfect soundtrack to begin my day and sets a calm, creative tone.

At the weekend, I’m also an avid listener to Countrywide on RTÉ Radio One. Even though I do not have a farming background, I enjoy hearing the stories of farming and rural life – tales of challenge, resilience and entrepreneurship. The programme is full of people who have adapted, persevered and built something meaningful, and I find those stories both inspiring and grounding.

Your signature dish if cooking?

My signature dish is fish pie, a recipe handed down from my mother. Growing up in Cobh, my father had a fishing boat, so we were fortunate to have an abundance of fresh fish. It’s a dish that is full of memories for me – simple, comforting and deeply connected to family and the sea.

Favourite restaurant?

Choosing just one would be impossible. Baltimore punches well above its weight when it comes to food, and we are incredibly fortunate to have such an outstanding choice of restaurants. Eating out for us is about far more than the meal itself – it's about meeting friends and locals, enjoying the buzz that visitors bring to the village and supporting the wonderful local businesses that make our community so vibrant. We really are spoiled for choice.

Last book you read?

The last book I enjoyed was No One Saw a Thing by Andrea Mara. I listened to the audiobook and loved her rich character development and the clever way she moves between past and present, gradually revealing the story.

I have got into the habit of listening to audio books, especially if I am travelling.

Best book you read?

When God was a Rabbit by Sarah Winman. It’s beautifully written, full of memorable characters and celebrates the importance of family, friendship and life’s unexpected twists. It’s a book that has stayed with me.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

The last album I bought was The Dream by The Favors. It has a warm, easy-going sound that’s ideal company in the studio and often finds its way onto my painting playlist.

Favourite song?

Have You Ever Seen the Rain, specifically the version by Willie Nelson and his daughter Paula Nelson. Their voices have such warmth and soul, and together they create something that feels both intimate and timeless.

One person you would like to see in concert?

Billie Eilish. 

Do you have a pet?

Yes, we have a dog called Daisy, and she is a Cavachon with lots of personality…..well she is American after all! Daisy was born on an Amish farm in Pennsylvania. We were living in Pennsylvania at the time.

Morning person or night owl?

I am a morning person; I love the quietness of the morning, especially when I am first up.

I love to go outside and feel the elements. It sets me up for the day.

Your proudest moment?

Launching White Willow Studio has been my proudest achievement. It represents the fulfilment of a long-held dream, bringing together everything I love – creating art, sharing my knowledge and opening the doors of my working studio to others. As I prepare to welcome my first workshop participants, it feels like the beginning of an exciting new chapter. My hope is that everyone who visits leaves feeling inspired, more confident in their creativity and having experienced the restorative power of making art.

Spendthrift or saver?

A bit of both. I’m careful with money, but I believe it’s worth spending on experiences, travel and anything that feeds creativity or brings family and friends together.

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

I would love to see more affordable housing for local families so that young local people and those with children can continue to live and work in the community they grew up in. Baltimore is a wonderful place to live, but its popularity has made it increasingly difficult for many local families to put down roots. I'd also welcome a safe walking and cycling path, which would encourage healthier lifestyles while helping to ease traffic and parking during the busy season.

What makes you happy?

Nothing makes me happier than seeing my family happy and thriving. I cherish being part of the wonderful community we have in West Cork, and I find real contentment in heading out with my sketchbook to immerse myself in the landscape. Those quiet moments in nature are where many of my paintings begin.

How would you like to be remembered?

I hope my paintings will continue to evoke memories and emotions, but more importantly, I’d like to be remembered as someone who made people feel welcome, encouraged them to embrace their creativity and contributed positively to my family and community. 

What else are you up to at the moment?

At the moment, I’m busy preparing for my first workshops at White Willow Studio, which is very exciting. I’m also planning open studio days so people can visit and see the space, and of course, I’m continuing to paint and develop new work. It’s a really energising time creatively.

The first of Monica's new workshops begins on Wednesday, July 8. For booking see www.monicajonesart.ie.