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 2014-2022
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
NCAD exhibition 'Art as an expression of Humanity', May 2022, NTMA, Dublin
Bailieborough Creative Hub Summer Showcase- July 2022
GALLERIES
The Trinity Gallery, Clare Street, Dublin 2
Gallery 1608, Bushmills, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland
Caffrey's Gallery, Ballina, Co. Mayo
