Mike Cahillane

Mike Cahillane 1959 'My work stems from my interest in the process of painting, I have created a window for the viewer taking them through a sequence of mark-making. This, I believe, has allowed the viewer to experience different layers of colour, tones and various techniques of mark-making. I have experimented with different mark-making techniques, not only with a variety of materials but also with the use of many surfaces. Manipulating materials has allowed me to create a suppleness that allows a greater flexibility in the practice of my work. There are many themes running through my work, time, repetition, energy, emotion and accessibility. By creating tactile paintings, I fell it is important for the viewer not only to view, but to also touch and feel the work as this allows the viewer to draw from their different senses. By allowing to touch we remove boundaries between the viewer and the object and as a result we create an interaction that is far more lasting in the memory, by inviting to touch, art is made accessible to a wider audience. The freedom of touch can eliminate certain illusions and can reassure a reality, moving art from simulation to stimulation. ' Art Awards:- Marks & Spencer Fine Art 1998 & 1999, Fresh Art, Special Feature Artist 2001, Victoria & Albert Museum Inspired Competition Drawing & Painting Prize 2002, Sense & Sensuality Blind Art Purchase Prize 2005

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