The artistic journey of Amy Begley: overcoming challenges and embracing inclusivity
DESPITE CHALLENGES, NEWMARKET ARTIST IS FOLLOWING HER DREAM IN A LIFE OF CREATIVITY
IN THE town of Newmarket, a rising star in the art world is making waves with her vibrant and inclusive creations. Amy Begley, a talented artist with a heart of gold, graciously shares her journey, inspirations and aspirations.
Amy’s artistic path has been paved with the unwavering support and belief of her father, Donal. “His encouragement has been my guiding light,” she says.
When asked about her artistic style, Amy emphasises that her work is “made from the heart”.
Currently, she is stationed in Cork, working as an accessible graphic designer with Cork ETB. This role not only allows her to express her creativity but also ensures that her art is accessible to all.
Creative blocks are inevitable in any artist’s journey, and Amy tackles them head-on:
“I like to play with a bouncing ball, take a walk, or simply chat with a friend to regain my creative flow.”
Describing her artwork to those unfamiliar with her creations, Amy paints a picture of “dark colours but with vibrant energy”.
Influenced by the ambition and creativity of Walt Disney, Amy’s art also reflects her personal journey and the supportive community around her, including Suisha Arts/Cope Foundation, Connection Art
‘Don’t let anything, especially yourself, hinder your creativity. Say yes to every opportunity and surround yourself with supportive people’
Centre and Cork College of FET, Douglas Street Campus.
Over the years, Amy’s style has evolved from acrylics to loose watercolours, with the pressure of deadlines motivating her to add more colours and details to her work. What truly sets her art apart, however, is its accessibility, catering to individuals with autism, dyslexia, and visual impairments.
Among her many pieces, one of the most challenging projects Amy has undertaken was her piece for the RHA Exhibition. Symbolising the freedom to choose one’s identity, it was a testament to Amy’s resilience and creativity.
One of Amy’s proudest creations is the enigmatic ‘Mysterious Lady’, a piece with a story shrouded in secrecy.
Looking to the future, Amy has exciting projects on the horizon, including an intercultural mural and accessible animation sequences.
When asked about her dream colour, Amy envisions a mesmerising blend of blue, rose gold and she also loves the colours purple and yellow.
In her imagination, Amy dreams of creating a piece of art that brings Disneyland to life. She also envisions an evolving artwork, like a galaxy filled with glitter and memories of progress.
Amy’s art is not only visually captivating but also conceptually rich, emphasising inclusivity and sparking thought-provoking conversations.
Through her work, she hopes to inspire viewers to stop, ponder, and get lost in the painting.
Challenges are an integral part of Amy’s artistic process, from deciding on colours to overcoming doubts.
Yet, through patience and perseverance, she continues to break barriers and evolve as an artist.
For Amy, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to showcase her work to the public and help others achieve their dreams, regardless of their disabilities.
Reflecting on her journey, she shares valuable advice for aspiring artists: “Don’t let anything, especially yourself, hinder your creativity. Say yes to every opportunity and surround yourself with supportive people.”
As for her future plans, Amy hopes to further her work with the ETB and her lecturer Kevin in disability inclusion and graphic design. With a heart full of dreams, she envisions opening an organisation in Cork, nurturing the talents of others, and perhaps even following in the footsteps of her idol, Walt Disney.