Doneraile Plein Air

Last weekend I headed to North Cork for the Doneraile ArtFest – a two-day plein air painting event held across two really beautiful public gardens. It was my first time at this festival, and while I usually find myself pulled more toward the coast, I’m so glad I made the trip inland for this one.

Saturday – Anne Grove Gardens

Day one took place in Anne Grove Gardens, a peaceful, well-kept OPW site with wildflowers, tall trees, and gentle water running through it. The weather was mostly overcast and a little warm, with occasional sun peeking through.

I spent a while walking between the meadowy wildflowers and the water, trying to decide what to paint. In the end, it was the reflections that won me over. I set up beside the stream and painted the gunnera, hemlock, and their reflections in the water – the scene just felt peaceful, and the sound of the water was lovely.

After I finished that first painting, I went straight into another – this time focusing on the meadowy wildflowers. Even though we were only allowed to submit one piece for the exhibition, deep down I’m just a painter at heart. If I’ve got the time, I’ll paint as much as I can. That second piece still needs some finishing touches in the studio, but I’m glad I captured it while the moment was fresh.

To my complete surprise, I was awarded First Prize – and later, the People’s Choice Award too. I was genuinely gobsmacked and absolutely delighted.

Sunday – Doneraile Park

The second day brought us to Doneraile Park, a large estate with expansive lawns, streams, mature trees, and wild planting. I was looking for something a bit sheltered, and eventually found a small bridge nestled in among grasses and wildflowers.

I painted the bridge with wildflowers and soft grasses in the foreground – another calm, layered scene that felt good to sit with. And again – somehow – I was awarded First Prize for the second time that weekend.

What I Loved About It

Events like this take you to places you might not visit otherwise. If I were heading to Cork, I’d probably stick to the coast. But this brought me somewhere different – and I’m really glad it did.

And of course, there’s the people. You meet other artists, have a chat, laugh about soggy paper or runaway easels. It feels like all of us emerging from our little studios and actually talking to each other in the open air, paintbrushes in hand.

Plein air painting is growing here in Ireland, and it’s brilliant to see so many festivals popping up – each one showcasing the best of a place, and the way we each see it through our own colours.

Back in the studio now, but still thinking about quiet reflections, tall grasses, and the shared joy of painting outside.

Kate