About

My name is Mairead Geary, I was born and live in Cobh, Co.Cork. Cobh is a beautiful town by the sea. During my walks around the island I photograph and sketch the marsh area, the rocks, the hills, the valleys, the bays and places of solitude and unbelievable beauty. I feel at one with these landscapes.

 

My father is from Kerry so from an early age I have spent much of my summer holidays roaming the many wonderful beaches and mountains of the Dingle Peninsula. We still go west, like homing pigeons drawn inexorably back to experience the stillness, the silence and that beautiful light from the Kerry skies.

 

My work implies that the bond between people and landscapes are implicit and profound. The rhythmic patterns of continual change in nature measure out our human lives. The history of our lives is inscribed in the land and the intimacy of this relationship extends to the intensity of my work. This inspiring spectacle is not an overwhelming otherness but a reflection of ourselves.

 

When in my studio, I surround myself with photographs, sketches and vivid memories. I do not start out with a preconceived image but this develops instinctively and spontaneously using layers of colour and textural elements. I work on several boards simultaneously, especially when completing a series of works. This allows me to share elements and techniques from one piece to the next, thus enhancing the cohesion, flow and balance within the series.

 

Since graduating from CIT Crawford College of Art & Design, I work in Cobh Community College as a part-time Art Teacher, which I love, and this enables me to work as an Artist, in these challenging times.

 

My home has a studio space and also a small gallery area, so if anyone would be interested in making a visit this can be organised by appointment. I am also available to take on work on a commission basis.

 

Awards - CIT purchase prize CCAD Degree Show. OPW purchase prize CCAD Degree Show. Eli Lilly prize CCAD Degree Show