Noel Gerrard Smith

Having lived most of my life in the small charming seaside town of Skerries in north county Dublin on Ireland's east coast I am surrounded by amazing scenery, including the islands of Shenick, Colt, and St. Patrick, the famous Rock-a-Bill Lighthouse, the Napoleonic Martello Towers and the historic Mills Museum, which features real working four and five sail windmills as well as a watermill and bakery from the 1800's. In addition, there is the Carnegie Library, the RNLI Lifeboat Station, where crews of volunteers have been launching lifeboats and saving lives for more than a century and the picturesque inlet harbour of Skerries with its ageing fleet of fishing trawlers.

          Skerries beaches are full to the brim in summer with tourists and city dwellers looking to dip a toe in the sea or for those more enthusiastic swimmers who take the plunge, they can do so from the Captains or Springers bathing areas where locals swim all year round. Take a stroll along the seafront leading to Red Island and its famous rocks looking out over the water towards the Mountains of Mourne or sample an ice cream at the quaint "Storm in a Teacup" hut at the edge of the harbour.

           I have always had an interest in art from an early age but for some reason I never had the time to get around to painting. Now in my 60's, I feel the time is right for me to express and create a variety of different subjects and topics that are dear to my heart. I have a particular fondness for landscapes which are surrounded by natural beauty. I find myself inexplicably attracted to lighthouses, particularly because Ireland is home to some of the oldest examples in the world. I am continually astonished by the engineering feats involved in constructing these structures on rocks that endure relentless natural forces day in and day out. These emblematic lighthouses are positioned along Ireland's coastline, often in some of the most secluded areas. I have to admit that I appreciate the delight that ancient buildings provide, as these historic structures serve as essential components in the tapestry of towns and villages around the world. Safeguarding them not only pays tribute to history but also influences the identity and future of a community.

          I opted to use acrylics instead of oils because I appreciate the quicker drying time, despite the fact that working with acrylics and their mediums can present certain challenges. The rapid drying of the paint enables me to apply multiple layers without prolonged waiting periods. Additionally, when layered, acrylics can achieve a glossy and substantial appearance, making them suitable for various techniques and surfaces.

The fascinating aspect about painting is the process of putting the brush to canvas and hours, if not days even weeks later, I find my curiosity will always be piqued by my finished product's unpredictable nature. Art offers me a way to perform with my hands and uses a language that needs no interpretation. I must confess that I am particularly fond of bright, intense, rich, vibrant, and deeply saturated colors.

          Upon completing a project, I experience a profound sense of satisfaction, particularly regarding the final outcome, which holds significant importance for me. The recipient of my creation is the individual I strive to please above all others. Each artwork piece should convey a narrative, and I aspire for my finished paintings to reflect that vision. I sincerely hope you find enjoyment in my work.

Noel Gerrard Smith