CONOR O'CONNELL
I am a visual artist based between Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon and NCAD in Dublin where I am currently studying Fine Art Painting and Education.
My work is grounded in realism, using traditional mediums and techniques in order to visually represent contemporary scenes and subject matter- which in my practise includes not only includes figurative work but also landscape and wildlife art- the latter which I have a particular fascination for- my wildlife work often includes undertones of conservation and human impact. My process involves multiple layers of research before paint is put to canvas or paper, and although primarily a studio painter at present, I am a firm believer in sketching from life where possible in order to fully comprehend not only the physical appearance, but the essence and vitality of a subject. I love the countryside and the artistic possibilities it offers, and spend many hours walking, sketching and painting near my home.
I often strive to ground my work within a uniquely Irish context, including visual landmarks in my backgrounds where appropriate. In my figurative and portrait work especially, it is my aim to depict contemporary Ireland as I see it, which can be beautiful, ugly, or both at the same time.
selected EXHIBITIONS
Boyle Arts Festival, Boyle, Co. Roscommon 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation 'Wildlife Artist of the Year', Mall Galleries, London, 2019
The Natural Eye, Mall Galleries, London, 2015
Dublin Painting & Sketching Club- 143rd Annual Exhibition, 2021
GALLERIES
The Trinity Gallery, Clare Street, Dublin 2
Gallery 1608, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland
Caffrey's Gallery, Ballina, Co. Mayo
