The Sligo-based artist and printmaker is inspired by her love of the sea and landscape …
What kickstarted your interest in art? I have fond memories of getting out the yellow wax tablecloth and art supplies as a kid to let my creativity flow. I loved it. On a Sunday as a child, my parents brought me and my brother Dylan to art classes called Art Trap in The Model, Sligo. There we created art on the floor in a room filled with work from the greats such as Jack B Yeats and Paul Henry. It’s safe to say that the craft was nourished and encouraged throughout my life.
Tell us about your artistic journey: I did a PLC course in fashion buying, styling and visual merchandising in Galway, which led me to Limerick School of Art Design. I had my heart set on graphic design, but I gravitated towards printmaking as I loved the hands-on process and variety of print techniques. It really was a playground for an artist to try a multitude of new things.
It’s a brave step to go solo as a young artist, how did that transpire? At my final year degree show, the OPW purchased three of my pieces which made me realise that people were interested in my work. When Martina, the owner of the Hamilton Gallery, saw my installation in LSAD she asked if I had enough work for a solo show. Without hesitation, I said yes! I could immediately visualise what I wanted to make to fill the gallery. This opportunity kept the momentum going which is very important to me as a graduate artist.
How has Sligo inspired your exhibition? I have such love for Sligo and its beauty. My whole life has been immersed in this landscape. I’ve been swimming and bodyboarding in the waves of Streedagh Beach since I was a child, in recent years exploring the hidden world beneath. The creation of my art is a way to express and explore these experiences.
How and where do you work? My work begins from the photographs I take while sea swimming, then the technical process of creating cyanotype prints at Limerick Printmakers,. Each image goes through extensive testing stages until the result is what I want my art to communicate.
What advice would you give to your peers about pursuing a career in the industry? If you decide art college is for you, work hard, try everything,ask for help when needed, and don’t waste the opportunity to learn and develop as the time flies!
Need to know: “The Sea, The Sea” is on at the Hamilton Gallery, Sligo until February 28. @Rachel.artin
