My curiosity lies in expressing a sensory feel of the land particularly around West Clare where I spend much of my time. 'Summer Fields' was inspired by walks around West Clare with my daughter last Summer. I always carry my iPhone camera and I take a little sketchbook where I make very quick sketches to remind me of the sense of place. Back in the studio I usually begin with charcoal on paper and then I move onto wood panels or canvas where I begin with charcoal and slowly introduce paint. Many layers and glazes are built up over time, building up and taking away, unearthing to allow the under colour to come through. 'Summer fields' reflects themes of human footprint, man working the land and the evolution over time through agricultural practices. Colour contrast is used to create visual interest, warm greens dominating cooler blues. Subtle pattern shifts and variations in light draw the eye to a dominant middle field, which appears to get the most sunlight. These details here are captured within a square format rather than panoramic, conveying a feeling of balance and an imagined sense of continuation while focusing instead on the elements within. Having graduated from Limerick School of Art & Design with a BA honours degree in graphic design and a postgraduate diploma in art and design education, my early career and training in composition and colour comes through in my work today as a painter. After teaching for several years and taking time out to raise my family I have returned to my own art practice and my work is regularly selected for exhibitions throughout the country.