First exhibition for Naas builder who quit job to take up painting

Fletcher's pub in Naas

Wonderful Barn in Leixlip

On June 25, Sean will have his first solo exhibition since finishing work.

"On March 30th 2017, although not near retirement age, I decided to leave construction in order to chase a dream I have had for a very long time.

"I have always painted since a very young age, but it wasn't until I emigrated to Canada back in 1989 that I started to take art seriously.

"I attended art college and during this time I devoted my time to watercolour. I returned home in 1997 and continued painting during my spare time, but in recent years it has become more important to me than just a hobby.

"I have been fortunate enough to be invited to exhibit in numerous exhibitions over the years and to join various art groups around the country, and was the winner of the Dunmurray Award last October at the Ulster Watercolour Society, 40th Anniversary Exhibition, in Belfast.

"Currently I have several galleries and venues that sell my work, so the next step seemed an obvious one, it was time to devote my full attention and efforts to try and make a career at the one thing I love to do.

"On Sunday 25th June I am having my first solo exhibition since finishing work, at the gallery in Straffan Antiques and Design, Barberstown, Straffan.

A pink rose

"The opening is at 2.30pm and I will be present to meet anyone who wishes to say hello, so if any of your readers are in the area on the day please drop in and browse at your leisure.....look forward to seeing you there."