Watch: English artist Ben Holmes has found his creative sanctuary in Inishowen

Nestled in the heart of Inishowen, where the rugged landscapes meet the ever-changing light of the peninsula’s dramatic coastlines, artist Ben Holmes has found his creative sanctuary.

For over a decade, Ben has been painting the beauty and spirit of this unique corner of Ireland, transforming its essence into colourful, vibrant, and evocative works of art.

Originally from West Yorkshire, England, Ben’s artistic journey began in his school days and led him to study painting at Winchester School of Art in 1995.

After a career that spanned illustration, graphic design, and printing, he found his true calling in oil painting. In 2012, he made the life-changing decision to move to Inishowen, where the breathtaking natural scenery of the peninsula became his muse.

“The Culdaff and Carndonagh area has been my creative haven ever since I moved here,” Ben shares warmly.

“The scenery is absolutely awe-inspiring. There’s a rhythm to it, a light that’s constantly changing, and it gives my work that vibrant and colourful quality.”

Knockamanny Bens, by Ben Holmes

Ben’s paintings are a celebration of the natural world around him. While his work is rooted in animals and figurative art, he loves to experiment with abstract elements and bold colours, creating a sense of movement and rhythm that mirrors the ever-shifting light of Inishowen.

From sweeping landscapes to intimate beach scenes, his art captures the essence of the peninsula with a unique warmth and insight.

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A key part of Ben’s creative process is drawing, a skill he has cherished since childhood. “I have always loved to draw,” he says.

“Drawing has always been an important part of my process; unplanned pencil marks that happen within preliminary sketches often become integral to the finished painting.”

Whether he’s sketching on Culdaff beach with his dog by his side or working in his studio, Ben continues to celebrate the beauty and spirit of Inishowen through his art.

Malin Bridge, by Ben Holmes

His paintings are more than just a moment captured on canvas – they’re a heartfelt tribute to the land he now calls home and the community that inspires him every day.

Indeed, Ben’s connection to the local community is as strong as his connection to the local landscape. In 2019, he was delighted to create a 47-foot-long mural inside the playground shelter at St Boden’s National School in Culdaff.

“It was a slightly daunting project,” he admits with a laugh, “but I was very happy with the results.”

He has also collaborated with young artists from Carndonagh Community School on a public mural project, giving them the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in their town.

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“It’s incredibly rewarding to work with young talent and see their creativity come to life in such a meaningful way,” he said.

Ben’s work has been exhibited throughout Ireland and the UK, and his paintings can be found in various locations around Inishowen, adding splashes of colour and vibrancy to public spaces.

His artwork is also available at www.irishhands.com – a new platform dedicated to supporting and promoting artists and creative makers from Inishowen and the North West.

“When someone chooses a piece of my work, it’s an honour,” Ben says. “I love knowing that my art can connect with people in such a personal way.”

Ben’s artwork tells an amazing story, capturing a moment in time or a feeling inspired by his surroundings in Inishowen.

Take a moment to appreciate the peninsula through his eyes – you might just see it in a whole new light.

To explore Ben’s vibrant and colourful artworks, visit www.irishhands.com/store/ben-holmes-art.