My name is  Niamh Eldridge Barry and I am 24, from Rathmore, Nass, Co Kildare. I have had a passion for art since my childhood.  When I was eight I entered an art competition for my primary school's fashion show with a painting of a beautiful rose with acrylic. My painting caught the attention of the 2005 Rose of Tralee winner, Aoibheann Ní Shúilleabháin, who walked the runway with me that year, holding my painting. 

Since completing secondary school, I have attended various art classes. In 2018, I enrolled at the Newbridge Youth Training Development Centre, where I learned about pottery, experimented with various techniques and crafted 3D sculptures. During the 2020/2021 lockdown, I also completed an online children's illustration course with the London Art College and then joined The White Box Gallery, a small art school in Naas, during the summer of 2021. My preferred subjects include landscapes and animals.  I take inspiration from my imagination and referencing places I have visited. 

I have never had the opportunity to exhibit my artwork, but showcase my work on my Instagram page.

The Connecting Artists 2023 community gives me the opportunity to connect with like-minded creatives. I like collaborating, exploring new ideas and learning from my mentor Aya and the other participants.  This experience has increased my confidence. The Connecting Artists 2023 Programme understands the unique needs of each participant and this understanding has been very important to me.