Fiona Finlay Art

With two little ones in the mix, finding time to paint can be tricky! I have definitely become more economical with my time in the studio. I try my best to have my surfaces prepped and get my canvases grounded so I can get stuck in straight away. For those unfamiliar with the technique, grounding is simply the term used for applying a colour onto the canvas which will then be painted over.  What's the point? Firstly, grounding makes the blending of colours far easier. Canvases can be quite porous so painting directly on them can result in the paint being absorbed quickly, making it difficult to spread and blend. Secondly, paint dries more vibrantly on a grounded surfaces, resulting in a richer finish.  Well that's your arty fact of the day! I'm off to catch a few zzzzzs before the nightfeeds begin! 

The term abstract art is often defined as  something that does not attempt to represent reality. Instead it aims to achieve its effect using shapes, colours, and textures.  While I enjoy completing commissions, an order for an abstract piece tops all others for me. I find taking a break from prescribed pictures can offer a great form of escape and relaxation.  It offers an opportunity to enjoy the process rather than critiquing against an original image at each stage of the painting. Above all else, I just love experimenting with colour and textures!  Abstract art has many benefits for the viewer and also for the room in which it is hung. It can easily tie in the colours used in the room's décor , as well as having the ability to create a feature wall. For the viewer? Similar to the artist, they instead have an opportunity to interpret the painting for themselves and make it their own. Check out my previous commissioned abstracts on the link below; https://ffinlayart...

 27th January at 7pm This session will take place virtually. A link will be sent out to all those attending along with a list of equipment needed. If you dont have art supplies yourself at home, I can provide them for you at an additional cost.  Can't attend the session on the evening but would still like to have a go? No problem! The tutorial will be recorded and video link can be emailed so that you can engage at a time that suits you.  Price: €15 or €25(+P&P) with equipment provided. If you would like to enrol, send me a PM on my Instagram or Facebook page or send an email to fionafinlayart@gmail.com.  All those who enrol will automatically be entered into a draw to win a Fiona FinlayArt gift voucher! Payments can be made via Revolut, Paypal or EFT. Any questions, just shout! Fi x

 Paint Along! Thinking of doing a virtual Paint Along. Would love to know your thoughts! What is a 'Paint Along'? It's simple, I paint and you copy! It's a great way to get back into painting, start a new hobby or maybe just a one off to unwind and have a bit of craic. Would like to join but don't have painting materials? No worries! I have starter packs that will be posted/delivered to you ahead of the session that include everything you will need. Camera shy? Why not arrange a Paint Along session for just you and your pals? If this is something that would interest you, send an email to fionafinlayart@gmail.com and we can arrange a date for the diary!

Why Paint? Friday afternoons in primary school meant one thing; our weekly art lesson. Regardless of abilities, I always recall my classmates enjoying it and was often regarded the highlight of the week along with PE of course!  As a teacher and a parent, I see similar enthusiasm with my own class and my daughter. I have often thought about why this passion and enjoyment is often lost as we grow up. I don’t have any of the answers for this but what I do now is that it is never too late to pick up a paintbrush and have a go again.  There are so many benefits to be gained! I've tried my best to narrow it all down to 3 main points; Therapy  – When working on a piece of art, your attention and focus is on what you are creating. As such, it can be very relaxing and a great way to forget about daily stresses or anxiety. For me, I find an hour painting has the same effect on my body as yoga class would (minus the sore muscles afterwards!). Creativity  – Painting provid...

 Welcome to Fiona Finlay Art!  Thank you for visiting my website. I hope you enjoy browsing through my work. Please feel free to get in touch if you have any enquiries about any pieces exhibited or wish to discuss a commission of your own.