Jim Shanahan

I was born and grew up in Dublin, Ireland, where I live and work presently. I have strong family connections with Tipperary, and I often enjoy to visit there, to enjoy the beautiful Irish countryside. I am relaxed and inspired by being in the outdoors. I paint in oils on canvas in a realistic style. I enjoy the vibrant colours and texture of oils. I use artists grade oils for their richness of pigment. My paintings are inspired from observation and imagination. I love nature and the great outdoors and I am interested in portraying people within such environments within my paintings. I am inspired by artists who use colour in a vibrant way to create realistic paintings, which are also more than just a direct replica of what is observed. Artists who inspire me include Nicholas Verrall, Gustav Klimt, Van Gogh and Stephen Quiller.

I am a mostly Self-taught Artist. My skill in drawing and painting has been honed over thousands of hours, and a lifetime of practice. I did not attend art college as I chose to study science, as a practical way to support myself, while improving all the time on my art. I research (books and observation of other art) and try to learn constantly to improve my art. My aim is to be at the upper level in terms of artistic ability.

I have won many awards and competitions for my art, including a second prize in the Texaco National Art competition, an Ireland wide competition.

I have studied for two years with Brian McCarthy, a professional artist here in Dublin.

As an artist I try to pay special attention to the use of colour in paintings and learn from observing other artists who have spent the time it takes to do likewise. I believe that as an artist it is important to attempt difficult paintings and compositions as this forces growth and resting on familiar ground is a waste of an artists potential. I believe I am developing a recognisable style and hopefully it will appeal to a wide audience.

My First Solo Exhibition was held in Clonmel Exhibition Space, in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary.

My paintings are held in many collections in Ireland and internationally (for example, in the collection of late Peter Sutherland, former EU Commissioner).