Song and Dance Exhibition at Clare Museum | Clare County Council

Fiona Faulkes’ ‘Song and Dance’ Exhibition to Illuminate Clare Museum in 2026

A captivating exploration of visual and musical harmony, the Fiona Faulkes exhibition, titled ‘Song and Dance,’ is set to grace the Clare Museum in Ireland from January 12 through February 14, 2026. The exhibition, presented by Clare County Council’s Arts Office, promises a unique artistic experience blending painting and the influence of classical music.

Why is this exhibition happening? The ‘Song and Dance’ exhibition is a showcase of Fiona Faulkes’ work, highlighting the deep connection between her painting and her passion for classical music. It aims to offer audiences a deeper understanding of her artistic process and solidify the Clare Museum’s role as a cultural center.

Did you know? – Fiona Faulkes’ work often depicts musicians,operatic characters,and even her own musical manuscripts,visually representing the influence of music on her art.

A Dual-National Artist’s Journey

Fiona Faulkes, a citizen of both Ireland and England currently residing in Ennis, Ireland, is a versatile artist working primarily with oil paint. Her artistic vision encompasses a broad range of subjects,from evocative landscapes and compelling portraits to deeply personal expressions of emotion,utilizing both abstract and conceptual styles.

Faulkes’ artistic identity is inextricably linked to her musical passion. A skilled classical pianist, she finds that music consistently informs her work, manifesting in depictions of musicians, operatic characters, and even her own musical manuscripts. “Music weaves through her art,” a representative from the Arts Office stated, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between her two creative pursuits.

Who is Fiona Faulkes? Fiona Faulkes is a dual-national (Irish and English) artist based in Ennis, ireland. She is a classically trained pianist and oil painter whose work explores the intersection of music and visual art, encompassing landscapes, portraits, and abstract expressions.

Pro tip – Artists frequently enough draw inspiration from multiple disciplines. Faulkes’ blending of music and painting is a prime example of cross-disciplinary creativity.

From Oxford to Ireland: A Growing Portfolio

Faulkes’ formal artistic training began at the prestigious Ruskin School of Drawing at Oxford University. Following her graduation, she actively engaged with the London art scene, participating in Open Studios with the Haringey Arts council, which culminated in a solo exhibition in Woodgreen, London.

Since relocating to Ireland in 2005, Faulkes has steadily built a strong exhibition record. Her work has been showcased in diverse venues including the Sirius arts center and the Roaring Donkey Pub in Cobh, as well as Cork Airport. She has also collaborated with Clare Arts, exhibiting in locations such as the Scariff and Kilkee libraries, the Clare Museum Art Space, and as part of the Arts Trail.Further displays have taken place in White Strand, Miltown Malbay, the Ennis Fringe Festival, and The bleeding Horse Pub in Dublin, demonstrating a commitment to engaging with a wide audience.

What is Faulkes’ artistic background? Faulkes received formal training at the Ruskin School of Drawing at Oxford University and actively participated in the London art scene before moving to Ireland in 2005. Since then, she has exhibited extensively across Ireland, in both traditional and unconventional spaces.

Reader question – How do you think an artist’s personal passions, like music, can influence their visual artwork?

A Harmonious Blend of Disciplines

The ‘Song and Dance’ exhibition represents a significant moment in Faulkes’