BIO

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.
She works primarily in oils, but also acrylics, charcoal, and encaustic (pigmented beeswax).

Over 26 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. She uses photo references and mirrors to evaluate composition, spraying, erasing, and layering until the piece feels complete. She finds beauty in ordinary local scenes such as boglands, seascapes & coastlines.
Referencing photos during her process helps capture the authenticity of light, mood, and composition.

Exhibitions & Community Involvement:
2022: First solo exhibition “On Our Doorstep” – Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery, Kilkee.
2024: Exhibition “Inspired Landscapes and Beyond” – Clare Museum, Ennis.
Jun 2025: Exhibition “Breaking Borders” – Kinvara.
Jul 2025: Part of the Summer Exhibition – Kenny Gallery, Galway.
Jul 2025: Kilrush Art Group exhibition – Kilrush Library.
Aug 2025: Exhibition “Painting through the Lens” – Cultúrlann Sweeney Library, Kilkee.
Her work can be also be viewed  at The Kilbaha Gallery throughout the year and at her own Gallery & Craft Shop (Anchor Crafts), which she runs in Kilrush.

CONTACT DETAILS

Pauline Dunleavy
T 086 8339347
E paulinedunleavyart@gmail.com
W www.paulinedunleavyart.com