Inspired
People, Places and Things
…with Kate McSharry
Kate McSharry is an emerging visual artist-curator currently based in Knocknacarra, Galway. On graduating from studying Contemporary Art at GMIT in 2021, she was shortlisted for the RDS Visual Art Awards and received a Graduate Curatorial Residency Award with Sample Studios in Cork. Kate works as an Education Officer and Gallery Assistant at TULCA Festival of Visual Arts in Galway. Her work will feature in the upcoming exhibition programme at Gallery Asna in Clonakilty, Co. Cork.
Describe yourself in three words
Creative, Open-minded, Ambitious.
What is something our readers might not know about you?
I have considered a career in construction – this is probably connected to my interest in making work using concrete.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
I began volunteering and interning with TULCA Festival of Visual Arts while in college, and have worked my way up to being an Education Officer going on two years. I get to work with such a fantastic team, and love that I can help facilitate a space for sharing thoughts and engaging with contemporary art.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
My parents and college lecturers. They have encouraged me to persevere and see the possibilities in making something you’re passionate about come to life.
Tell us something you love about Galway
The art scene. While there is definitely room for improvement in the infrastructure – we need more gallery spaces! – the art community is strong, and the shared collective energy is a wonderful thing to be involved in.
Kate McSharry is also one of over 1,200 artists taking part in this year’s Incognito art sale in which the artist’s identity remains a mystery until the sale closes. Ireland’s biggest online art sale, each Incognito artwork costs €65 and, with so many amazing artworks to select from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. In aid of the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation, which this year is celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Incognito 2022 collection goes live on Thursday, 31 March, and the sale gets underway on Thursday, 21 April.
To register visit www.incognito.ie
