Thomas Higgins, a talented artist from Drumalee Cross in Co Cavan has been provided with a opportunity to showcase his "remarkable" artwork on a national level. The Cavan man is one of 10 artists who have been selected from around the country as part of the Connecting Artists 2023 programme.
His paintings will form part of an exhibition at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (RCSI) from the 16th to the18th of July next. Thomas says his love for art has been a constant source of inspiration and expression throughout his life.
He added, that through the programme, he is able to advocate for people with disabilities and gain recognition as a local artist. "Through this programme, I aim to advocate for people with disabilities. I want to gain recognition as a local artist and challenge myself outside my comfort zone," said Thomas.
Meanwhile, his preferred medium is oil paints, and he loves recreating photographs and pictures with his unique touch. Thomas' creative process involves dividing the image into a grid, sketching the main elements, and gradually painting from dark to light.
He enjoys working on his pieces in increments, allowing his creativity to flourish. Previously, he exhibited his artwork in his hometown's courthouse as part of the local Arts Festival, where he experienced the joy of selling one of his oil paintings.