Members & Friends Exhibition 2026: Meet the Artist - Lynda O' Donoghue

 

Introduction

Lynda O' Donoghue has submitted a watercolour piece titled "Fastnet Lighthouse" after one of West Cork's most iconic maritime landmarks. She has provided further insight into her methodology and personal connection with the lighthouse.

Interview with Lynda O' Donoghue

1. What inspired your submission for this year's "Members and Friends" Exhibition, and were there any particular people, places, experiences or events that influenced it?

This watercolour was inspired by a boat trip I took around the Fastnet Lighthouse last year. Being able to see it from every angle and taking photographs of it up close gave me a completely new appreciation of this iconic landmark. The experience stayed with me long after the trip, and I wanted to capture not only the lighthouse itself but also the sense of isolation, strength and permanence it conveys. As a West Cork native, I am continually inspired by our coastline and the stories connected to it. The Fastest felt like a natural subject for my first submission to the Members and Friends Exhibition.

2. What led you to choose the medium used for your work? How did it help you express your ideas?

Watercolour was my preferred medium for this painting because of its ability to create atmosphere and subtle transitions of light. Watercolour keeps the sky and sea soft while allowing the physical presence  of the lighthouse to stand strong.  

3. What do you hope viewers take away from your work? Whether emotionally, intellectually or otherwise.

I hope viewers are drawn into the quiet drama of the scene and take a moment to reflect on the resilience of the lighthouse & its place in our maritime heritage. On a personal level, I hope the painting evokes a sense of calm and wonderful, reminding people of the beauty and power of the natural world that surrounds us here in West Cork.

4. Did your original vision for this piece change during its creation? If so, how and why?

Yes, it evolved as the painting developed, I intended to create an accurate representation based on my photographs. However, as I worked I became interested in conveying atmosphere and mood trying to capture the Fastnet in the weather conditions.

5. Is your work based on any particular location in West Cork?

 The Fastnet Lighthouse is one of Ireland’s most recognisable landmarks. For me, seeing it from the sea during the boat trip brought its scale and significance to life in a way photographs alone never could. It represents resilience, guidance and endurance against the elements. I find these qualities inspiring, and painting it was my way of celebrating a structure that means so much to the history and identity of this region.