"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.
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.
"Society does not always recognise the masters that are rising in their midst."
Caroline Cunningham | On the Impressonists
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, 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.
‘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.
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.
Through my art and writing I share stories and inspiration for transformation, healing and dreams turning to reality. When you visit my gallery you glimpse my journey, my authentic path. It took a ‘Break True’ moment to point me towards developing my artistic talents. It’s never too late to make a new start. I’ve achieved a lot in a relatively short time. My work has been presented in New York as part of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, has been displayed on county Post Office and has been show-cased on National TV. Read more about my art journey here.
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