Living the artistic dream isn't easy - but it's worth it!

Dominika Piekarska is inspired by the dramatic coastline of Kerry for her work as an artist. Here she tells us how she manages to live her lifelong dream of being a full-time artist, living and working in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.

The gorgeous and dramatic coastal views of South West Kerry are the inspiration for 'Light Shining Through', a new collection of atmospheric, contemporary landscape paintings by artist Dominika Piekarska. Dominika, originally from Poland, is now living in the Iveragh Peninsula to draw inspiration for her work. She tells us how she and other artists deal with the financial issues of following their dream. With background in psychology (MA), she decided to turn her lifelong love of art into her ‘professional focus’ in 2019.  Since then, she’s had seven solo exhibitons and over twenty group shows, art auctions and other events. Much of her work was created during many artist residencies, which are vital to help to aspiring artists, she says.Dominika’s work can be seen in Dublin at the United Arts Club, Fitzwilliam St. Upper, in Dublin from 4-27th of April, excluding Sundays. No entry fee.  

Being an artist is a dream many people share. But they may fear the whole „artist living in an attic” thing. Is it hard to make ends meet?It can certainly be at times! The income from art can be unpredictable and inconsistent. That's why it's important to have other motivation for being an artist than the financial one. A lot of artists have 'bread and butter' jobs or various income streams. I guess it's a question of importance and personal values. It's the same as everything else in life - if it's not on top of your priority list, you'll keep finding excuses not to do it. If it's really important, you'll find ways to pursue it. That's my approach and so far I have managed not to live in the attic! 

Your paintings are beautiful and (unlike some modern art) would look great on any wall. How much do they cost?Thank you! Most of my paintings are medium or small size and they cost between €600 and €2000. 

What did your parents teach you about money?That if you don't have it, you need to be resourceful and inventive! I often watched my mum creating amazing things out of nothing. One of the funniest memories is of her bringing the old toilet to the garden and planting geraniums in it. As someone with a huge sense of humor, she got a great kick out of it. The 'planter' is still there. 

Have you ever struggled to make ends meet?Absolutely! There was a time in Poland - I was in my twenties back then - when the unemployment rate in my hometown was extremely high and it was almost impossible to get a job. A lot of people have struggled, including my family. Thankfully, a lot has changed since. 

Everyone is saying how well Poland is doing? Are you or many other Poles tempted to go back?No, I'm not tempted to go back, although I miss certain things about Poland. Especially this time of the year, when storks and cranes arrive and nature wakes up after a long Winter. My home is here now and Ireland has been very good to me. I have found everything here - friendships, love, inspiration and fulfillment. I have a strong connection with Ireland and I have met some amazing people here. Because I'm here for so long, I feel more at home here than there. And, as far as I know, it's a common experience for people who have settled here for good. I go there as often as I can, but I'm always happy to arrive back in Kerry. 

What was your best investment?Any money that I have spent on learning, upskilling and professional development in general. I love learning and improving, I'm driven by curiosity and I think this type of investment always pays off.   

As a society do we support artists? Is there anything more we should do?I think Irish people do have appreciation for the arts in general, but of course there is a lot that could be done and support can come in many different ways. Buying art is the obvious one, but a lot of people can't afford to buy original art. Encouragement, spreading the word, attending cultural events, all these things can make a difference. There should definitely be more done in order to protect the artists' jobs and to protect the work they make.        

What was the best year of your financial life?I believe that such a year is still ahead of me!