We were fortunate to meet Michelle Kettle many years ago now when she lived in Australia. We developed a great relationship with her and she has participated in many group and solo exhibitions with us. Since returning to Ireland we have continued to represent her at Boom.

The Long Way Home is Michelle's sixth solo exhibition with us. This new body of small paintings shows her love for and connection to the local Irish landscape. It gives the viewer a glimpse into a peaceful, serene and beautiful part of the world. We are excited that Michelle can join us for the opening and see the exhibition in person through the support of Culture Ireland.

ARTIST STATEMENT

"These paintings are a personal reflection of the Irish landscape I know and am still greedy to know after a long absence while living in Australia.

From main streets in country towns to fields dotted with little sheds and abandoned houses down overgrown lanes. I am particularly drawn to the weathered patina of a house left empty and given back to the elements. They seem to me a forlorn, crumbling vessel of fading memories. I will often take the long way home in the hopes of making an intriguing discovery or finding some thing of beauty in a landscape that always nourishes my curiosity".

BIO

Michelle Kettle is a visual artist from Loughshinny, Co. Dublin, Ireland.
 

She studied ceramics at the National College of Art and Design and upon graduating in 2009, moved to Melbourne, Australia. Without the immediate use of a kiln, she began painting.
 

After twelve years in Melbourne, she moved back to Ireland with her family at the end of 2021 and now resides in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan.