Over 4,600 works were entered for the first round selection process, 685 were selected for the second round and 420 artworks were selected for the 195th AnnualExhibition at the RHA  in Dublin. I was absolutely delighted that my painting "Saoirse" was selected to be in this exhibition, and was even more thrilled when it sold, on the first day the exhibition was open to the public.

I hope that my painting of  "Saoirse" honours the accomplished craftsmen of Hegarty's Boat Yard, and Fred Kinmonth who commissioned this historical  boat to be reborn. I am very privileged to have had the opportunity to record, through painting this incredible transformation and restoration of Irish History. Thanks to Liam, John and Paddy Hegarty for allowing me access to the boat  yard.