Summer Blooms and Studio Updates: May News

As we move into May, I've been spending as much time as possible outdoors, soaking up the vibrant summer blooms and the sunlight that this season brings. It is a wonderful time to be an artist in Ireland, and I am finding so much energy in the fresh colours of the hedgerows and fields.

In the studio, I've been busy preparing for a full season of creativity. From our first summer workshop to brand-new events in the heart of Kilkenny, there is so much to share with you this month.

Summer Workshop Updates

Plein Air Workshops: Sold Out I have been overwhelmed by the response to my 3-day Plein Air workshops for May and June—these are now officially sold out. If you would like to be added to the waitlist to be the first to hear about future dates or cancellations, please email me at geraldinewalshart@gmail.com.

First Summer Workshop: Bluebells Our first one-day summer workshop is coming up on Saturday, 16th May. The theme is Bluebells, capturing that magical carpet of colour in the woodlands. You can book your place now on the website under the 'Art Workshops in Kilkenny' page.

New Event: Paint & Picnic at Butler House

I am thrilled to announce a brand-new event: Paint & Picnic in Butler House on Saturday, 13th June.

This special event is now available to book on the website. For €75, the day includes:

• Painting Session: Starting at 10:00 AM in the beautiful surroundings of Butler House.

• Picnic Lunch: Served at 12:30 PM in the Butler Tea Rooms.

• What to bring: Please bring your own paints, brushes, and equipment—whatever you prefer to use for your own creative process!

This Month's Featured Painting

This month’s featured painting, 'Garden Company', captures a quiet summer moment of sun-drenched flowers and feline company in the garden.

• Price: €350

• Availability: Available now in my Castle Yard Studio!

Thank you for your continued support and for following along on this creative journey. I look forward to seeing you at the easel soon!

Geraldine

Festive Updates, New Art Classes, and 2026 Painting Workshops in Kilkenny

The festive season is in full swing at the Geraldine Walsh Art studio and gallery. From the bustling energy of Yulefest Kilkenny to the quiet preparation for our 2026 art classes and workshops, there is a wonderful sense of creativity in the air. Whether you are seeking a unique Christmas gift or looking to develop your own painting skills in the New Year, this month’s update covers everything happening in the studio and beyond.

Studio Update: Yulefest and Paris Inspiration

The Castle Yard in Kilkenny has taken on a beautiful December glow. I am currently welcoming visitors to my gallery space (Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–5pm) to view original landscape paintings and prints.

This year, I am also delighted to be part of Yulefest 2025 at a new indoor location on the 1st floor of KBC Bank. The view from my temporary studio window has already inspired a new piece, "Yulefest Carousel," capturing the magic of the festive lights on the Parade.

Beyond the easel, a recent trip to Paris to see the Sargent: Dazzling Paris exhibition at the Musée d'Orsay provided a massive creative boost. Observing John Singer Sargent’s masterful brushwork up close has given me fresh inspiration as I prepare new work for January.

New Art Classes & 2026 Workshops in Kilkenny

If your New Year’s resolution involves more creativity, our upcoming term of art classes begins this January. These classes are designed to be a relaxed space to explore techniques and build confidence.

• Kilkenny (Tuesday mornings): 10am–12pm, starting 13th January.

• Thomastown (Thursday evenings): 7pm–9pm, starting 15th January.

• Thomastown (Friday mornings): 10am–12pm, starting 16th January.

For those looking for a deep dive into specific themes, my Spring 2026 Workshops in Thomastown are now open for booking. These full-day sessions include all materials and lunch:

• 7th February: How to Paint Distance

• 7th March: Painting Sunlight

• 11th April: Painting Seascapes

Featured Artwork: Golden Tide

While the winter evenings grow darker, I am highlighting a piece that brings a bit of warmth back into the home.

"Golden Tide" is a recent beach-sunset painting that captures the fleeting glow of the Irish coast.

• Price: €600

• Location: Available to view or purchase at my Castle Yard Studio.

12 Days of Christmas: A Painting a Day

Don’t forget to follow along on social media for my "12 Days of Christmas" event. I am sharing one original painting each day on Instagram, offering a unique opportunity to find a seasonal deal on a piece of original Irish art.