Cork artist whose fans include George Clooney hosts summer show

Majella O'Neill Collins, Paula Marten and Aisling Roche join forces for art exhibition at The Yellow Door, Baltimore

Majella O'Neill Collins at the launch of the exhibition entitled Open Door, Open Minds. Picture: Emma Jervis

If it’s good enough for George Clooney then we’re in. 

The work of Sherkin Island-based Majella O’Neill Collins caught the A-lister’s eye when he was in West Cork several years ago and faster than you could say Ocean’s Eleven, the Hollywood actor snapped up one of the painter’s signature nautical-inspired canvases from an Inchydoney gallery.

Majella says she remembers being "pleasantly surprised" when told who had bought the seascape, adding: “But I feel privileged whenever people connect with my work and invest."

The painter has joined forces with fellow artists Paula Marten and Aisling Roche to host a summer showcase at The Yellow Door in Baltimore, West Cork, from July 27 to the end of August.

Paula Marten, Aisling Roche and Majella O’Neill Collins. Picture: Emma Jervis

Open Door, Open Minds aims to celebrate women’s art and the trio will share the secrets of their work via scheduled and unscheduled talks.

Majella, who is also a lecturer with TU Dublin’s Bachelor Visual Arts on Sherkin Island, brings the charm and resilience of island life to her paintings. She is inspired by the sea and her island surroundings, and says her art reflects her “personality and deep connection to her environment”.

Majella O'Neill Collins.

Artist and teacher Paula Marten infuses her vibrant, intricate creations with her love for nature and West Cork. “My work reflects the impact that nature has on humanity, emphasising the importance of embracing its positive influence,” says Paula.

Paula Marten, Majella O’Neill Collins and Aisling Roche. Picture: Emma Jervis

Aisling Roche draws inspiration from the sea, particularly the mesmerising Lough Hyne. “My art evokes the serenity and fragility of the ocean's ecosystem, reflecting the memories, dreams, and otherworldly experiences I encounter while swimming,” says Aisling.

A standout feature of this series is the opportunity to engage directly with the artists through scheduled and unscheduled talks. Majella, Paula, and Aisling will share the stories behind their works and offer insights into their creative processes.

A scheduled talk takes place on Saturday, July 27, at 6pm, at the gallery.