Original Paintings

My oil painting portfolio showcases various original works created and inspired by my life journey.

I paint mostly with my fingers with thick textured layers of oil paint and explore colour as a key feature of my work. I also use palette knives. I take commissions – please enquire.

To enquire further about any of my listed Original Paintings or to arrange a private viewing please email me: ruthmoloneyart@gmail.com

LATEST NEW Work…

Seascape series

“Ladies’ Day” – Forty Foot: The forty foot in Dun Laoghaire has always been a hugely popular location for meet-ups with friends and strangers alike. “Ladies’ day” captures a ‘girl’s day out’ as they form their own chain of friendship descending the slippery steps of the forty foot.

Re-discovering our beautiful coastline has been one of the rare silver linings of the global pandemic. More and more Irish people have found joy, delight and companionship as they have joined the growing tribe of open-water swimmers.   The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available in a 32 x 24″ canvas set in to a large white frame for €950. There are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page for more detail.

“High Spirits, High Rock!” – Throughout all seasons, whatever the weather, there is always fun, laughter and excitement to be found in our local swimming spots.  What is it about plunging ourselves in to cold water that releases our happy hormones and makes us feel so alive! “High Spirits High Rock” captures the energy and palpable excitement generated as a group of all ages gather together in their shared love of the sea. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available in a large 36 x 32″ canvas and is set floating in a large white wooden frame for €1,500. There are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page of this website for more detail or alternatively visit the Kilkenny Design website on http://www.kilkennyshop.com.

Aprés Swim – Sandycove. Large Original oil painting on 47 x 32 inch canvas set in to frame size 49 X 33.5″. SOLD

Aprés Swim : Aprés Swim captures the essential outdoor changing and chatting ritual as a key part of the outdoor swimming experience. Bathers joyfully work through the challenges of dry clothes, wet skin and preserving their dignity! All part of the fun at the changing wall in Sandycove!

Re-discovering our beautiful coastline has been one of the rare silver linings of the global pandemic. More and more Irish people have found joy, delight and companionship as they have joined the growing tribe of open-water swimmers. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available in a large statement canvas size 47 x 32″ set in to a large white tray frame. Visit the “Shop Prints” page of this website for more detail or alternatively visit the Kilkenny Design website on http://www.kilkennyshop.com.

“Howth Reflections”:With its distinctive blue and white stripes and busy marina, Howth Yacht club is a familiar and welcomed sight for sailors and walkers alike. “Howth reflections” captures the beauty of the harbour and colourful boats that surrounds the club house on a sunny still day in Spring. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available in a large 36 x 32″ canvas and is set floating in a large white wooden frame. There are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page of this website for more detail or alternatively visit the Kilkenny Design website on http://www.kilkennyshop.com.

“A special Place” Vico Baths: Re-discovering our beautiful coastline has been one of the rare silver linings of the global pandemic. More and more Irish people have found joy and serenity from simply spending more time closer to the lapping sound of waves in the open sea. “A special place” captures the beauty of the Vico Baths in Kiliney where the view on a sunny day will simply take your breath away. The Vico Baths is a treasured and most loved place by locals and non-locals alike. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available on a 20 x 13″ deep edge canvas set in to a large white frame while there are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page of this website for more detail or alternatively visit the Kilkenny Design website on http://www.kilkennyshop.com.

“Winter Romance on the Pier” : Whether it’s a first date or a forty-year wedding anniversary, Dun Laoghaire Pier has always been a favourite for romantic walks. “Winter Romance on The Pier” captures the love and companionship of a couple in their winter years on a winter’s day as they hold hands and continue their shared love of fresh air, sea views and each other. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available on canvas set in to a large white frame while there are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page of this website for more detail or alternatively visit the Kilkenny Design website on http://www.kilkennyshop.com.

“Peering out to sea”, Dun Laoghaire: Re-discovering our beautiful coastline has been one of the rare silver linings of the global pandemic. More and more Irish people have found joy and serenity from simply spending more time closer to the lapping sound of waves in the open sea. Dun Laoghaire Pier is always a hive of activity as young and old enjoy the gorgeous sea views and fresh air. “Peering out to sea” captures a private moment as a man gazes in to the distance and allows his mind to be briefly swept away with the gentle waves. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available on canvas set in to a premium white frame. There are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page of this website for more detail or alternatively visit the Kilkenny Design website on http://www.kilkennyshop.com.

‘Beach Days’ Sandycove – 24 x 20″ original oil on deep edge canvas – SOLD but framed signed prints of this image are available from €55 for small and €125 for large. Commissions welcome on a similar scene

“Strolling the Pier” – 20 x 60″ original oil on deep edge canvas – SOLD

Stormy Seas – 20 x 20″ -SOLD. Similar commissions welcome..

Sailing – 24 x 20″ Original oil on deep canvas – Sold.

Hook Lighthouse, Co Wexford – original oil 20 x 16″ on canvas – SOLD. Commissions welcome.on similar scene.

Resting Sun – Oil on canvas. Canvas is 12 x 12″. Available to buy in The Trinity Gallery

“Restful Skies” – original oil on canvas, 20 x 20″ – With large white wooden frame size 30.x 30″. Price including frame €800

‘The Swimmer’ – Large original oil on deep edge canvas 39.5 x 32″ SOLD

Inspired by a gorgeous photograph taken by my favourite Dublin photographer Doreen Kilfeather, ‘Escape’ captures a sense of tranquility and escape from the chaos and freneticism which sometimes engulfs the world we live in. In the worrying age of climate change , we need to cherish, protect and be at one with nature and the oceans that surround us.

This is a large thickly layered original oil painting 39.5″ x 32″ on deep edge canvas set ‘floating’ in to a simple and gorgeous white wooden box frame. The entire painting was created without brushes using the finger painting technique.

Dublin by the Sea series

From Dun Laoghaire pier, the Martello tower at Seapoint to blustery walks to Poolbeg lighthouse, I’ve really enjoyed painting some of the coastal landmarks in Dublin which have been a big part of my up-bringing.

Winter Swimming , the Forty Foot – Original oil deep edge canvas size 32 x 24″ set in to a large premium white frame. SOLD .Signed framed prints available in two sizes.

“Winter Swimming” – The forty foot in Dun Laoghaire has always been a hugely popular location for hardy sea-swimming enthusiasts and novice adventurers alike. Throughout all seasons, whatever the weather, there are always bathers to be found re-energising and revitalising in the magic of the cold sea water. “Winter swimming at the forty foot” captures the spirit of this special ritual. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available on canvas set in to a large white frame. There are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page for more detail or see kilkennydesign.com.

“Taking the plunge” – Sandycove – Original oil on a 24 x 20 inch canvas. Available to buy from the Irish Design Gallery in Dun Laoghaire Signed framed prints also available in two sizes.

“Taking the PLunge”: Throughout all seasons, whatever the weather, there are always bathers to be found re-energising and revitalising in the magic of the cold sea water. “Taking the plunge” captures the child-like excitement, energy and fun which comes with the energetic leap from terra firma in to the cold and invigorating waters of the Irish sea. The original oil painting, created using the impasto palette knife technique is available on a 24 x 20″ canvas set in to a large white frame while there are also two sizes available in framed signed prints. Visit the “Shop Prints” page for more detail.

Sunny Seapoint – large 47 x 32″ deep edge canvas – SOLD. Commissions welcome

Banter at the wall, Sandycove – 20 x 28″ deep edge canvas . Price for framed canvas is €950

Winter Swimming, Sandycove – Deep edge canvas size 20 x 16″ . SOLD

Clearing the Cobwebs – original oil on canvas 20 x 16″ – SOLD. Prints available. Commissions on similar scene welcome. Signed Framed Prints available in two sizes – visit the “Shop Prints” page of this website.

Dun Laoghaire Town – original oil on canvas 20 x 16″ SOLD . Signed framed prints available in two sizes – see “Shop Prints” section of this website. Commissions on similar scene welcome.

“Parenting – from 99s to Social media” – original oil on canvas 24 x 20″ -SOLD. Signed Framed prints available in two sizes – see the “Shop Prints” section of the website.

“Distancing on the pier” – original oil on canvas, 20 x 24 SOLD. Prints available.

Drying off, Forty Foot – 24 x 20″ original oils on canvas – SOLD. Prints available. Commissions on similar scene welcome.

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“Chinwag” – Martello Tower Seapoint – Sandymount” – 24 x 20″ original oil on deep edge canvas -SOLD. Prints available. Commissions on similar scene welcome.

“Poolbeg Lighthouse” – 24 x 20″ Original oil on canvas. Available to buy from Irish Design Gallery in Dun Laoghaire.

A wet and blustery walk down the Poolbeg lighthouse pier with a loyal friend. This was painted using my fingers using layers of thick textured oil paint. Available to buy from the Irish Design Gallery in Dun Laoghaire

Band Stand – Dun Laoghaire Pier – Original oil on 20 x 16″ canvas. SOLD. Similar commissions welcome

Dublin Beauties – some of my favourite spots in Dublin

From Sandymount towers, the ha-penny bridge, the leafy Phoenix Park to beautiful Dalkey – these paintings represent some of my favourite and iconic places in Dublin where I grew up.

Sandymount Towers – 24 x 20″ Original Oil -SOLD

Finnegan’s Dalkey – 24 x 20″ original oil on canvas – SOLD

Dublin’s Fair City – Ha’Penny Bridge – 24 x 20″ original oil on canvas – price for framed canvas €950

Tea Rooms in Autumn – Original Oil 20 x 24″ Commission

I am lucky enough to live very close to the Phoenix Park and have explored every inch while I was training for marathons and cycle events. I always relished the pit stop here in the beautiful Tea Rooms where the homemade scones and warm lattes are second to none. A gorgeous spot where visitors are more than happy to queue in the shady surrounds of the dancing trees.

Bee Collection – original oil on canvas – various sizes.

I have started a collection of Bee paintings which are all original depictions of bees in nature using textured oil paint on deep edge canvas. These are all original oils paintings and prices vary according to size. Most of these are also available as signed framed prints in two sizes – see my prints page. Not all paintings are displayed here and I am available to do commission of any size above 12 x 12 “.

Bee Lavender – 12 x 12″ – SOLD

Bee

Connemara Series

“Dreaming of Connemara” – original oil on canvas, 24 x 20″ SOLD

Gorgeous Connemara – original oil on canvas board – Framed

By The Sea – Near Cheathru Rua – original oil on 24 x 20″ canvas. Price With large white wooden frame €800 Size with frame 730mm x 830mm.

Horse and trap, Aran Islands – 24 x 20″ original oil on canvas- SOLD

Sunny Connemara – oil on canvas. Canvas size 12 x 12″ -SOLD

“The Basket Weaver” – original oil on canvas, 20 x 16 unframed €700 with large white wooden frame

Curious Sheep – 20 x 16 ” on canvas. Price with white wooden frame €700

Animal Series – original oil paintings or animals

Mr Hedgehog – 12 x 12 ” Oils on Canvas SOLD

The Hare, the Hare and the Hare – original oil on canvas

Proud Peacock – Large 40 x 32″ original oil on deep edge canvas. €1,550 unframed.

Phoenix Stag – Original Oil on canvas 20×24″ SOLD

“All good things are wild and free” – Henry David Thoreau. Walking among the wild deer in the Phoenix Park is just one of the many joys of living close to Europe’s largest urban park. The herd are descended from the deer who were chased by gentry for enjoyment and food in the seventeenth century. And so it is no surprise that it is with great caution that these beauties allow us venture close to them and share their habitat. What a privilege.

Painted in thick textured oils using the finger painting technique on deep edge canvas. Canvas 20″ x 24″ and framed with a white wooden floating frame.

Pheonix Stag II – Original Oil on deep edge canvas 16×20″ €700 framed

Second in my collection of Pheonix Park Stags. This is painted with palette knife and textured oils on deep edged canvas 16 x 20″.

“Whatever..” – Pheonix Deer – Original oil on deep edge canvas 12 x 12 ” €395 framed .

Giraffe – Large 20 x 39″ approx – unframed on deep edge canvas €1500

A friend for Hedwig – Original oil on canvas board 20 x 16″ Framed €600

I’ve always loved the intensity of the owl’s gaze. This painting reminded me of my daughter’s obsession with Harry Potter and his trusted owl, Hedwig. But every owl needs his own pal…

This is a textured original oil painting on board 20″ x 16″ and framed in a double mount shadow box white wooden frame. It has been painted with palette knives and uses vibrant colours and thick textured layers of paint.

Flowers and nature series

“Flowers on a gray day” – Original oil on canvas size 20×20″. Price with frame €650

“Poppy Field” – 24 x 20 original oil on deep edge canvas SOLD

“And the warm summer sun makes the red poppies dance..” – part of a series of paintings created while in isolation during the Covid 19 crises fulfilling my need to create something to make me smile. This is a finger painting which focuses on bright happy colours and lots of texture. Oils on deep edge canvas. Doesn’t really need a frame.

Hydrangea Cliffs – Original oil on canvas 24 x 18″ unframed €700

“Happy Flowers” – 24 x 20″ original oil on deep edge canvas – Pricing including large white wooden frame €850

During the Covid 19 isolation period we celebrated a mother’s day like no other. Rather than buying flowers, I enjoyed the opportunity to paint them. Textured oil painting created using my fingers.

Sunflowers – Original oil on canvas 20 x 24″ – Commission.

Sun Salutation – Original Oil on canvas 20 x 30″ unframed

A joyful appreciation of nature and time out. Sun Salutation is a reminder to self love and to be grateful for what we have. Painted in thick layers of oil using the finger painting technique on deep set canvas 20″ x 30″. I painted the sides of this canvas so it can be hung with or without a frame.

Autumn Adventure – Original oil on 20 x 24″ SOLD

I adore the rich tapestry of colours that come with Autumn and the falling leaves. This was based on a photo taken in Wicklow and inspired by my son’s delight at another Autumn forest adventure in the surrounds of the Glenview Hotel. This painting is a celebration of vibrant autumnal colours and the beauty of the great outdoors.

Painted in rich textured oils straight from the tube using the finger painting technique on deep edged canvas 20″ x 24″. The sides of this canvas have been painted so it can be hung without a frame.

The path is made by Walking – Original oil on canvas 20 x 24″ SOLD

Inspired by a photo taken by my friend walking the Camino with her mum, a journey I have always longed to make and will do in the future. I loved the sparkling contrast of light and shadow. “Wanderer, there is no path. The path is made by walking” – Antonio Machado.

Lavender Lady – Original oil on canvas 20 x 24 – SOLD

I’ve always wanted to wander through the lavender fields in France – some day I’ll make it. In the mean time I can paint it!

Lavender lady is painted with thick oils using the finger painting technique. It is 61 x 51 cm on deep canvas set ‘floating’ in to a simple but gorgeous white box wooden frame and looks stunning on my wall.

People Series

I am particularly drawn to people and capturing their mood and expressions. My ‘People’ series varies from portraiture , musicians, writers to street traders.

“Being Oscar” – Oil on canvas size 32 x 24″. Price with white wooden frame €1250

“Tom Crean” – original oil on canvas 20 x 20″ SOLD

“Grafton Street Flower Traders” – 47 x 39 ” original oil painting. €2,400

“Give up yer aul sins!” – The “Grafton Street Flower Traders” was also painted while in Covid 19 isolation and a reminder of happier times and of the iconic big personalities that line our streets every week selling gorgeous flowers and a good laugh to boot. With special thanks to Irish Times photographer Nick Bradshaw who gave me permission to use his fab photo as a reference. This is a very large canvas, painted in thick textured oils using a combination of finger painting and brushes for finer detail. If you are looking for a statement piece – this is it

Forever Young – 20 x 16″ original oil on canvas SOLD

“Seisúin Beag” – Oversized unframed canvas 47 x 39” approx. €2,200

There’s nothing quite like an impromptu trad session in a cosy traditional Irish bar where the pints are flowing and everyone is your friend. This oversized canvas needs a large wall. It’s been painted in thick oils using mostly pallette knife and a little finger painting.

Don’t Go – Original oil on deep edge canvas 20×20″ €850 Framed

“Don’t Go” – portrait of Irish musician Liam O Maonlai and based on the captivating photography of Doreen Kilfeather. Liam was a dream to paint – full of intensity and possibility. Thank you to Doreen for giving me permission to use her stunning photographic portrait as a reference.

“Longing” – 25 x 20″ unframed on deep edge canvas

Glen – Hard Stare – 20 x 20″

Beckett

“Dance first. Think later. It’s the natural order” – Samuel Beckett

Beckett – 20×20 SOLD

“We are all born mad. Some of us remain so” – Samuel Beckett

The Music Man – 20×20″ €550 Framed

W.B Yeats – 10×14″ unframed on deep edge canvas Framed 395

“Every trial endured and weathered in the right spirit, makes a soul nobler and stronger than it was before” – W.B Yeats

Painted in thick oils with a limited palette of gray and white using a palette knife on deep edge canvas 10×14″. Unframed €140 / Framed €210

Jumping In Puddles – Original oil on canvas 25×30″ SOLD

Painted in the wake of Storm Lorenzo, ‘Jumping in Puddles’ is a reminder of simple and innocent joys. What is it about splashing about in the rain that brings out the child in all of us?

Painted in thick textured oils and vibrant colours on a 25″ x 30″ deep edge canvas. The sides of the canvas have been painted so this painting will look beautiful with or without a frame.

Old School – 20 x 18 ” Original Oil on deep edge canvas

The best kind of fun is found far away from the world of technology and devices, but rather in simple things – like the humble tyre, rope and tree. Like most parents, I struggle to navigate the world of technology with my kids and trying to figure out how to get the balance right. But I get huge satisfaction from seeing my children enjoy simple and ‘old school’ ways of having fun. This was taken in the “Forest School” in the Phoenix park where we wandered together after school before the summer break.

Ice Cream JOY – Original oil 24 x 20″ – PRIVATE COLLECTION

Licking an ice cream on a sunny day is one of life’s simple joys for young and old. I wanted to capture that sense of fun and indulgence with this painting.

The Stolen Child – Original Oil on 20 x 24″ canvas €700

“Come away , O human child! To the waters and the wild, With a Faery hand in hand, For the world’s more full of weeping than you can understand. Where the wandering water gushes, From the hills above Glen-Car, In pools among the rushes, That scarce could bathe a star.” This painting reminded me of W.B Yeats’ beautiful poem , ‘Stolen Child’ after which it has been named. The painting is about youth, innocence and the pleasure in finding simple joys.

Painted in thick textured oils on deep edge canvas size.

Juvenile Delinquents – Original oil on canvas board 12×16 . Framed €450

My family are involved in the Metro Saint Brigid’s local athletics club and I have attended and supported many races. This Juvenile Athletics Cross Country race took place in the beautiful Phoenix Park. There is always a wonderful atmosphere of anticipation and support from athletes , clubs, proud parents and excited supporters. I can’t help but feel very inspired by these wonderful young people and the dedicated volunteers who make it all possible. I was keen to capture the movement and electric mood of the day..

Painted with knives and paint brushes on canvas board this is 12″ x 16″.

Original oil on canvas board 12×16 ” Framed €350

Rain Dance – Original Oil on canvas 20 x 24″ €700 unframed.

Cycling is a funny sport, full of incredible highs coupled with challenging lows. But there is one thing that remains a constant joy, regardless of the weather and other obstacles; the camaraderie , encouragement and support from your fellow cyclists. I have been lucky enough to cycle all over Europe and Ireland and have never seen leadership, kindness and selflessness that paralleled that of those who lead a cycling tour. Gentlemen and women of the highest order.

Painted with palette knives in thick textured oil paint on deep edge canvas 20″ x 24″.

Late Late – Original oil on canvas board 14 x10″ Framed €450

This barn owl reminded me so much of the late late show owl on RTE. He was fun to paint and became a journey through expressive colour.

Painted on board with thick oils using a palette knife 14″ x 10″ . Unframed at the moment.