Painting through the lens - Art Exhibition by Pauline Dunleavy

Clare Arts Office in conjunction with Cultúrlann Sweeney Library Gallery is delighted to present ‘Painting through the lens” an art exhibition by Pauline Dunleavy.

Pauline Dunleavy is a prominent Irish artist, art-teacher, and community advocate rooted in the dramatic landscapes of West Clare. Born and based in the Kilrush area, she draws endless inspiration from the shifting moods of the River Shannon and the Atlantic coast. Mediums: Primarily works in oils, but also acrylics, charcoal, and encaustic (pigmented beeswax). Over 25 years of painting, her style has matured into vibrant pieces rich in texture and transparency, often incorporating abstract elements layered with pastel, charcoal, and acrylic before final oil or wax finishes. She loves nothing more than getting out into the landscape to sketch.  Her creative approach begins with music, layered gesso, and quick studies. Uses photo references and mirrors to evaluate composition, spraying, erasing, and layering until the piece feels complete. She finds beauty in the ordinary local scenes such as boglands, seascapes, coastlines and this comes through in her work. Pauline often photographs landscapes before painting. Referencing photos during her process helps capture the authenticity of light, mood, and composition. She waits days before signing the work to ensure total satisfaction of the piece.