Ballybofey-based artist Veronica Maguire is preparing to launch her new solo exhibition, Donegal Sands, at the Old Courthouse in Lifford.
Donegal Sands, running from 4th July-5th August, is a body of work consisting of twenty original, contemporary oil paintings inspired by selected Donegal seascapes along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Drawing from the untamed beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way, Maguire blends fine art with the raw textures of nature. What sets this body of work apart is her distinctive technique: sand collected from each beach is physically incorporated into the artwork, either mixed with the oil paint or applied directly to the canvas. Gold and copper leaf add a reflective shimmer, evoking the coastal light and atmosphere.
“I wanted each painting to carry something real from the landscape—not just its image, but its texture, its presence,” says Maguire. “By using sand and metal leaf, I hope viewers don’t just see these places, but feel a connection to them.”
Donegal Sands – A Solo Exhibition by Veronica Maguire
The idea for the exhibition emerged from a private commission in which the artist was asked to paint a beach of personal significance. The emotional impact of incorporating sand from that specific location inspired Maguire to expand the concept into a full series—celebrating Donegal’s extraordinary coastline and connecting viewers to place in a tactile, immersive way.
Veronica Maguire is a self-taught artist with over 25 years of experience. Her work spans a variety of media, including oil, watercolour, alcohol ink, and acrylics. She has exhibited widely across the Northwest and was selected for the 140th Royal Ulster Academy of Art exhibition in Belfast in 2021.
Her painting Homes of Donegal now forms part of the Stormont Castle Civil Service Collection.
Donegal Sands is her sixth solo exhibition and promises to be her most innovative to date.
Admission is free and all are welcome to attend the official opening on Friday, 4th July at 7:00 PM.
The exhibition will remain open to the public during gallery hours until 5th August 2025.
