Exhibitions | Carlow Arts Festival 2019

Carlow Arts Festival 2019 June 4th to 9th  has a fantastic line up of creative events and exhibitions, including interactive shows, street music, theatre and a drive-in movie. Many events are free thanks to the organisers and sponsors.

Focus on Inclusivity & Reaching Out

Artists from around the world join with local artists to perform and display their work through pop-up galleries and at 'Art Works' at the Visual.  This year artists have been invited to submit work in response to the song lyric:

Dearly beloved,

We are gathered here today

To get through this thing called life

Let’s go crazy, Prince. 1984

During Carlow Arts’ Festival my art will displayed in the window of Shaw’s retail store on Tullow Street, Carlow. 

Mount Leinster - Framed

Carlow Arts Festival is an important cultural event for Carlow which has plenty to offer its visitors in terms of hospitality, good food and heritage.

Carlow offers outdoor pursuits such as river and forest walks, fishing and rowing and of course plenty of opportunity for shopping - Carlow Visitor Information.

I look forward to meeting my creative friends during the festival and visiting their exhibits and performances too.

Add Colour Inspiration to Your Home or Work-Space:

My art tells stories that awaken dreams and keep them alive, through the use of vibrant colours and the freedom of allowing imagination to seep through reality.

Explore my artwork to feed your own dreams and keep them alive. You'll find landscapes, trees, scenes from lands such as India and Portugal.

Choose from original paintings in a variety of sizes or a range of prints including limited editions.

The Grounding Effect of Trees

Fresh air, stretching the muscles and a whole lot more: what you're likely to get from time spent in the forest.

What about the wonderful sense of connection to the earth which trees are strongly rooted to? Many people refer to this as the grounding effect of trees.

Giving voice to the fact that trees nuture our wellbeing, is my purpose for creating: ‘The Sacred Lives of Trees’

The Benefits of Grounding Yourself

Grounding helps when you've been affected by the following:

  • a crisis/shock/trauma
  • immune system has been weakened through illness
  • a period of low energy, anxiety or dizzy spells
  • feeling depressed, grieving or broken-hearted

There are lots of circumstances in life that can leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves.

Along with seeking professional support to heal, trees are one aspect of nature that can provide us with a way of restoring connection and it usually doesn't cost a lot to visit a forest or spend time with trees.

Tango Tree | Sold

"Trees are an important contributor to our well-being, this factor is much deeper than some may realise."

Caroline Cunningham, Artist

Tree Meditation

More people are recognising the grounding effects of trees as a very real benefit for well-being, which is why tree analogies are often used in meditations and visualisations.

Imagine yourself having roots just like trees, anchoring yourself strongly to the earth. By influencing our thoughts and feelings in this way, we can change our body’s chemistry over time and raise our energy to allow sensations of being centred.

By developing this practice we can become more clear in our thinking and more able to deal with the surprise ‘hits’ life throws in our paths.

Sacred Lives of Tree's Tour

The response I got from launching ‘The Sacred Lives of Trees’ tour was tremendous. My on-line community sensed the importance of my quiet message, through my use of vivid colours and the intimate settings of trees.

From the comments I received,it was clear that the message resonated with many people, as they expressed their gratitude for trees and the comfort that they had received as a result of their presence.

Add Tree Inspiration to Your Walls

Add the healing energy of trees to your home or work space through my vibrant tree paintings, with many sizes and styles to choose from. Explore the collection, see something you like, get in touch and make it yours today.

Who's your favourite artist?

"Who’s your favourite artist?" I asked a friend of mine. "You!" was their prompt reply. While it's always nice to receive a compliment I remained curious and I reflected on the artists who had made an impression on my own development in the visual arts.

Jack B. Yeats (1871 1957)

I've always loved Jack B. Yeats paintings at the National Gallery of Ireland. I'm intrigued by his later ‘expressionist’ work, his experimental approach and disregard for rules.

Stories come alive in sensational colour and enticing textures arousing curiosity and prompting the viewer to move around to assess all perspectives.

Jack's fluidity and daring attitude are most appealing. His ‘Morning in a City’ (c.1937), ‘About to Write a Letter’ (1935) and ‘The Liffey Swim’ (1920) are my amongst my favourites.

When creating Dancer, from Birth of a City collection, I unleashed some daring of my own, giving life to my version of the Liffey at Dublin's Hal'penny Brdge.

Dancer | Birth of a City (Sold)

"Society does not always recognise the masters that are rising in their midst."

Caroline Cunningham | On the Impressonists
St. Stephens Green (Sold)

Monet & Friends

National Art Gallery officially celebrated the opening of its Millenium Wing in year 2000 by hosting of the works of The Impressionists (1860s-1880's).

My eyes were like new as I cast them upon these famous patintings. The visual experience was so vibrant it felt like the artwork had arrived freshly painted from a devine place.

I was in awe of the mastery of Monet's work, his absolute attention to detail and true conviction of what could be achieved regardless of what others might think or say.

This group of painters taught me an invaluable lesson in being true to your heart (and art) rather than the accepted 'norms' of a society that does not always recognise the master that are rising in their midst.

Harry Clarke 1889 - 1931

Harry Clarke, a remarkable Irish artist, started out in book illustration and transferred his genius imagination and unique style to staining glass windows, portraying fantasy worlds that are truly magical.

Despite a short life, due to illness, he leaves a legacy of exquisite works around Ireland and world-wide.

I've been a regular visitor to the Hugh Lane Gallery (Dublin) to immerse myself in his story of 'The Eve of St. Agnes' (1924), inspired by a poem of the same title by poet John Keats. The work was orignially commissioned for Harold Jacob (owner of a reknowned biscuit factory) for his private home.

Sacred Universe is my homage to Harry Clarke who remains top of my list of favourite Irish artists.

Sacred Universe | The Sacred Lives of Trees (Sold)

Art Travel Beyond Ireland

‘The Kiss’ by Gustav Klimt (1862 – 1918) was the purpose of my trip to Vienna. I indulged in the sensuality of his works, the rich shimmering gold displays and intricate designs, adorning the lofty feminine forms.

I found his women intimidating and remote. Could it be that this was their coping mechanism for being female in a world that doesn't always favour our kind? I had a long way to go to find my own coping mechanisms so I afforded Klimt's women some compassion.

"This was the stuff of dreams, imagination and simplicity."

Caroline Cunningham, | On 'The Rooftops of Barcelona' by Pablo Picasso

I'm not a fan of Picasso's (1881-1973) ‘Cubism’ style, however ‘The Roofs of Barcelona’ (1902) remains strong in my mind after my visit to the Picasso museum in Barcelona This was the stuff of dreams, imagination and simplicity.

Get Invited

Thanks for taking time out to take in my art reflections, I hope it has helped you with your own. For latest art news and invites, join me by adding your email below.

Top 3 Most Popular Limited Editions Prints

Do you recall a piece of artwork that resonated with you the moment you set eyes on it? Some pieces have a call that touch us in a deep place while others quietly beckon us to contemplate their meaning.

With my own artwork, there are three pieces that prompt decisive action from my buyers.

To bring you one step closer to your purchase decision I present my top three most popular limited edition prints.

Ganga Dreaming

The original oil painting was part of my 'Indian Heartway' collection. Ganga Dreaming was the most popular and first to sell. It's the same with the limited edition print version. Admirers comment on the timelessness and tranquility of the piece. One of my collectors purchased the piece after having a Feng Shui consultation for her home; the sail boat representing good fortune and prosperity.

Ganga Dreaming Limited Edition Art Print

Love's Light Upon Us

The much admired original acrylic painting (now sold) is from the collection 'The Sacred Lives of Trees', designed to honour the benefits of trees for our well-being. Many find the title appealing and there's something special about those two little leaves with the light shining in on them. Created after a visit to the Bamboo Garden in Glengarrif, West Cork.

Loves Light Scanned Watermarked

Break True

This is piece is instantly recognised by those who are following their 'Authentic Path'. The original marked the start of my own path of transformation in healing and following my heart. It brought a tear to the eye of its new owner when presented as a gift from their friend. Similary, the limited edition print version has been purchased as gift to friends who need inspiration in life and it's also cherished by those starting out on a new career.

Print Details

My limited edition prints are produced using finest archival quality inks and paper. They come with a certificate of authenticity and are limited to 150 in an edition. The art prints are a fixed size and are shipped unframed.

They can be delivered worldwide by postal system, wrapped in acid-free tissue and rolled loosely in a sturdy cardboard tube.

Lifestyle Gifts | Colour Creative

Enjoy easy online shopping at Fine Art America. Sip coffee in the comfort of your home while exporing my range of unique art prints and lifestyle products.

Choose from art prints in a range of sizes on canvas or on a variety of papers. It's also possible to customise life-style products such as tote bags, phone covers, cushion covers and more.

"Offering a selection of my artwork as 'open editions' brings my unique creations to a wider market in terms of affordability."

Art of Caroline Cunningham

How to Shop online for Affordable Artwork & Gifts

Step 1 - Visit my gallery at Fine Art America and choose the art work that appeals to you.

Step 2 - Choose from a range of formats such as art print, greeting card, tote bag, phone cover and more.

Step 3 - If selecting a print for your home:

Step 4 - When choosing greetings cards:

Step 4 - Choosing lifestyle products:

Step 5 - Check where the product is being shipped from

Step 6 - Add to Cart and get ready to check out!

Step 7 - If you still have querys....

More information available here - Frequently Asked Questions

Gifts for all Occasions:

My open edition prints are a more affordable way to obtain my artwork, with options for customising lifestyle items such as phone-covers, tote bags and personalised greetings cards. You get to choose the size of the art print and the format (e.g. paper or canvas options) and ultimately you choose within your budget.

These are gift ideas for all occasions, making it easy for you to organise your gifts for the year ahead.

Return of the Sacred Trees - VIDEO TOUR

There's no imaginable excuse for missing out on my last tour of The Sacred Lives of Tree's that's because I made THIS VIDEO especially for you to enjoy (:

2025 Update

The Sacred Lives of Tree's exhibition tours were warmly received all over. While many of original paintings are now in good homes around Ireland and Europe, there's still some opportunity to obtain a piece in the form of print or painting. If you liked the virtual tour, pop over to my online gallery and discover your own perfect tree art work.

Darker Days & The In Between | Art of Caroline

December gives some of us cause for despair as we plunge deeper into darkness and cold damp air, hallmarks of Irish winters. Summer, I'm in my element, spending time outdoors, the warm feel of sunshine on my skin and sleeping with my window open, regardless of what experts say no amount of vitamin D can produce those soothing sensations.

In Between Spaces of Nature

"That which, diverts our minds from perceived problems and dilemmas, is worthy of being appreciated and framed."

Caroline Cunningham, Artist

As we glide through the sublime colours of autumn, I acknowledge the in-between state of summer fading away and the looming winter which I'll endeavour to embrace once more.

Many of my paintings in ' The Sacred Lives of Trees' collection show the bareness of winter branches attempting to catch hold of the setting sun, reflecting beauty and hope.

The In Between’ painting places the viewer between darkness and the light. In such moments, our true essence can be impressed even more upon us. Embracing our darkness is just as important as recognising the brilliance of our light.

Embrace The In Between

While the original painting of The In Between now resides in a home in Finland, you can still avail of your own printed copy with many options to customise for homewear, lifestyle and even as greetings cards.

Check out all these print options at my store at Fine Art America.

The Bankers Office | Exhibition 2017

It's fitting that my art work, inspired by the simplicity of nature, is displayed in a kindred nurturing environment. During November 2017 my solo show runs for two weeks in the Bankers Office at Art Bank in Bunclody, Co. Wexford.

I showcase my painting collection The Sacred Lives of Trees along with my books and art prints. I welcome visitors to step into a magical wooded world featuring paintings such as The In Between, Symphonic Trees and Labyrinth.

event

The Bankers Office,
Art Bank Bunclody Co. Wexford

November 7th to 19th 2017

Keep your Dreams Alive:

My paintings are an expression of stories that awaken dreams and keep them alive. I love vibrant colours and the freedom of allowing imagination to seep through reality.

Explore my artwork in the interest of feeding your own dreams and keeping them alive. You will find landscapes, trees, scenes from lands such as India and Portugal. Choose from original paintings in a variety of sizes or a range of prints including some limited editions. See something you like, get in touch and make it yours.

Art Bank Fun | Exhibition 2017

Solstice Group Exhibition | Art Bank Bunclody

Art Bank Police 2017

Joy! That's the most apt word that describes all visits to Art Bank Bunclody in Co. Wexford.

I'm proud to exhibit amongst the variety of talented artists on display in the latest 'Solstice' themed exhibition from July 21st until August 23rd 2017.

Inclusivity and community are at the heart of all creative endeavours at Art Bank whose leading members are setting ambitious goals to change the way art is received and experienced not just in this part of Wexford, but in all of Ireland.

Opening Night Fun

Opening night was full of fun and co-incided with the launch of 'The Streams of Bunclody' festival.

'Evening Tide' from my 'Sacred Lives of Trees' collection will be displayed alongside works of artist friends such as Trudi Doyle, Mary Wallace, Martina Furlong, Elwira Bernaciak and Valerie James.

So what did we get up to on opening night?

Well the dodgey policeman sure had everyone talking!  (;

Evening Tide | Painting €480

Add Colour & Inspiration to Your Life

My art is an expression of stories that awaken dreams and keep them alive. I love vibrant colours and the freedom of allowing imagination to seep through reality.

Explore my artwork in the interest of feeding your own dreams and keeping them alive. Discover landscapes, trees, scenes from lands such as India and Portugal. Choose from original paintings in a variety of sizes or a range of prints including some limited editions.

See something you like, get in touch, make it yours!

Fine Framers Art Exhibition | Summer 2017

Honoured to be among the first local artists to be invited to exhibit at Fine Framers Carlow at their fabulous store on the Wexford Road out of Carlow town.

Art of Caroline Cunningham
Art of Caroline Cunningham

Show-casing Art of Caroline:

My 'Ed O'Connell' portrait is there, the one that was curated by Carlow Arts Festival, for display on the county Post Office as part of the Pure Thinking community project.

Also on show, a selection of paintings form The Sacred Lives of Trees, along with a selection of life drawings.

Take the opportunity to view my art work up close. Fine Framers will have experts on hand to help you choose the perfect frame to suit your home decor.

Portrait of Ed O'Connell | Framed

Add Colour & Inspiration to Your Life

My art is an expression of stories that awaken dreams and keep them alive. I love vibrant colours and the freedom of allowing imagination to seep through reality.

Explore my artwork in the interest of feeding your own dreams and keeping them alive. Discover landscapes, trees, scenes from lands such as India and Portugal. Choose from original paintings in a variety of sizes or a range of prints including some limited editions.

See something you like, get in touch, make it yours!

Almost Nationwide | Shaws Carlow | Art Festival

Nationwide at Last

Remember that Shaws radio advert back in the day? ‘Shaws! Almost nationwide!’In some typical Irish banter with friends, we en-acted the scenario of a Carlovian emigrant eager to know about things back home: ‘tell me this....did Shaws ever make it nationwide?’

Many Carlovians have grown up with Shaws department store at the heart of their shopping experience. A family owned business in its fourth generation, since Henry Shaw first opened its doors in 1864, it seems they have indeed ‘made it nationwide’, with stores in 16 locations across Ireland.

The new tag line for adverts: ‘Shaws, your complete department store!’

Art Show Case | 2017

Shaws Carlow have traditionally featured the work of a local artist during Carlow Arts Festival in June and this year, I'm delighted to have my work featured in their windows.

As you stroll through Tullow Street, watch out for a sample of my paintings from ‘The Sacred Lives of Trees’ collection, along with a selection of my limited edition prints.

Art Prints | Choose Size & Budget

Open Edition Prints | Lot of Options

Sometimes it's the size that matters and the price too and that's where art prints at my Fine Art America shop can be most efficient in providing you with exactly what you want.

A print on demand service, with print houses worldwide, my online print shop at Fine Art America offers many options for obtaining a piece of my artwork at the price of your choosing.

It's even possible to choose the type of paper or canvas on which to print the artwork. I particularly like 'Somerset Velvet' paper for my art prints. You'll also discover a range of customisable products such as tote-bags and phone covers.

Robin prints available in different sizes
Robin prints available in different sizes

"Art is important in our lives, it connects us to our dreams and can positively affect our well-being."

Art of Caroline Cunningham

Greetings Cards | Art of Caroline

Explore my range of greetings cards, in high quality finish, each one accompanied by a crisp white envelope. You have the option to personalise the cards with a greeting of your own or leave blank.

Gifts for All Occasions:

My open edition prints provide ideas for gifts for all occasions as well as nice treats for yourself. Check out the full range of options in my online shop at Fine Art America. I've created a guide to shopping the site to make things even more simple.