We are now heading back to Dublin after a few lovely weeks in Italy. It was early October when we arrived in Radicondoli, and the weather (to our minds, at least) was beautiful. As usual, we’d some great times with our friends, picking olives (not as a fabulous harvest as last year), and a few trips to the sea.

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In September I had my solo show at the United Arts Club, and it couldn’t have gone better. Barry Devlin made a great opening speech and Niall MacMonagle featured my work in the Sunday Independent (see the article below). This was really unexpected, as it’s almost impossible to get a mention in any paper unless your work is in one of the main commercial galleries or exhibitions. Perhaps he is fond of the underdog?

I had been worried that none of the work would sell, as it’s quite gloomy and very different from any of my previous subjects. But I thought that it was now or never; and ran with it. Thankfully I sold more than I expected. At least the framer will get paid. A bit of a phew moment!

Three days after the opening I took part in the Art Car Boot Fair at Russborough, and again against the odds (dreadful weather), I sold some work. The strange thing about this was that a few of the pieces were old and had been on my studio floor for many years.

And now about Italy. Even though we were quite busy meeting up with pals and helping with the olive picking, I did manage to finish four large drawings and start a fifth. I’m a bit superstitious and like to leave an unfinished drawing on the wall to come back to. I will definitely use two of the finished ones for drypoints.

I also got the great news that my etching “First Snow - San Galgano” was selected for one of this year’s Chelsea Arts Club’s Charity Christmas cards; it is featured also in my calendar for 2024 as the image for January. It is such an honour – and poignant, as Jackie’s (Stanley) work was selected for last year’s cards; it was the last card she sent to me.

So now it’s back to the grindstone. I’ve got a couple of group shows coming, up as well as my Studio Open Day on Sunday December 3rd. Hope to see you there!
P.S. my 2024 calendars are printed and are available to buy at €12.50 (p&p extra). Please email me if you’d like one, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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