Conor O'Connell, “VOICES”, 2024

Artwork

“VOICES”, 2024 (Oil on canvas 120cm X 58cm) 

Artist

Conor O'Connell lives in Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon and graduated from NCAD in 2024, having studied Fine Art Painting and Education.

His painting practice focuses on the significance of objects and artefacts and the often obsolete processes involved in their creation. Much of his work is introspective, informed by his surroundings, interests and lived experiences. Themes in his work include ancient history, nature and psychology.

Conor's practice also explores the manner in which objects have been collected, displayed, valued and catalogued in museums and private collections throughout history. He is very interested in heritage skills and practices and their enduring relevance in a contemporary context. These skills, which are central to Conor's practice, include taxidermy and bronze castings of ancient artefacts. These objects in turn are often depicted in his painted work. The process itself of making these objects is of great significance for him and allows him to feel in touch with something ancient and venerated.

Conor's work has been featured in various group exhibitions throughout the country including the RHA Annual Exhibition, AIB Portrait Prize, Boyle Arts Festival and Art Riddler.

This particular piece of work is part of a series of paintings exploring contemporary relationships with ancient landscapes and the sense of ability in these places to transcend the passage of time. The setting is Lough Gara, Co. Sligo.

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