About the artist

Maria Noonan-McDermott is an Irish visual artist and poet from Donegal, now based in Kinlough, Co. Leitrim.

Inspired by the Irish landscape, folklore and the emotional weight of memory, she creates paintings and texts that are rooted in place and storytelling. Her work draws on the spirit of rural Ireland and the voices, histories and imaginative worlds held within it.

Recent work includes exhibitions, residencies, commissioned projects and poetry publications across Ireland and beyond.

From the Studio

Here I share news from the studio, recent exhibitions, new work and some of the stories behind my paintings and poetry. It is a place to follow the evolving threads of my practice, from works in progress and exhibition journeys to the people, places and memories that continue to inspire me.

Time-Lapse

Tonight I travel back in time when
I wear my mother's coat.
One that she lovingly designed and created.

I imagine her now, the concentration on her face as she turned the wheel on every single stitch.

Tonight I step back in time as a mark of love and respect for a very special lady with a gentle heart and a brave soul whom I have accompanied on a challenging journey as we restitched the threads that continue to bind us forever.

The coat fabric, in a soft natural wool is a welcoming comfort.
Its rich orange tones emulate warmth and remind me of long Autumn evenings sitting together beside a glowing fire.

I slip my hand into the pocket in the knowledge that her hands rested there too.
I wonder how she must have felt when she first wore it, those many years ago?
She of course, would have been a lot younger then, than I am now!

Everything about this timeless piece reminds me of her.
The durability of the clothe that has stood the test of time and the exquisite craftsmanship, elegant with just a hint of extravagance. The understated classic style with statement buttons and lining to match, because even that which was hidden also deserved special attention.

Like her, this coat personifies strength and resilience. Hard-wearing though soft to the touch, not just a fashion item but a staple garment that was lovingly worn, cared for and adorned.