Kim Roberts, a 65-year-old Cork woman, has turned her passion for art into a successful career, despite being a late bloomer. The former sales and marketing professional, who spent years working in the corporate world, found her calling in art at the age of 50, and has since become known for her striking mixed-media pieces.
Table of Contents
A Late Bloomer
Kim’s journey into art began when she started studying at the Crawford College of Art and Design at the age of 50. She had always been interested in art, but had never pursued it before. However, after spending years working in the corporate world, she felt burnt out and decided to take a chance on her passion.
- Kim had a degree in sales and marketing, and had worked in London, the US, and America before returning to Cork.
- She was a “bit of a nomad,” always looking for a new challenge, but found that she couldn’t get a job in Cork due to the economic crash.
- She then joined an artists’ collective in Thessaloniki, Greece, where she met her husband, Alan, and fell in love with the city’s vibrant art scene.
A New Chapter in Her Life
After finishing her degree at the Crawford, Kim and her husband moved to Greece for three years, where she joined an artists’ collective and continued to develop her skills. She became known for her ability to transform discarded materials into striking mixed-media pieces, and her artwork often tells a story of the natural world.
- Kim has a unique approach to art, using materials such as glass bottles, rusty locks, and other discarded objects to create her pieces.
- She often incorporates natural elements, such as beachcombing and foraging for materials on the beach.
- Her artwork is not just about aesthetics, but also about storytelling and the emotional connection she makes with her subjects.
A Turning Point
One of Kim’s biggest turning points came when she produced a body of work that was sensitive and fragile, which was chosen to tour around Europe. The piece that ended up in the National Gallery was one of the most poignant, and it was a major boost to her confidence as an artist.
| Year | Event | Description |
| 2019 | The National Gallery of Ireland acquired one of Kim’s paintings for its permanent collection. | Kim was “floored” by the news and felt a huge sense of validation. |
A Debut Solo Exhibition
Kim’s debut solo exhibition, which is currently on display at Ballymaloe Grainstore until April 21, showcases her unique approach to art and her ability to tell stories through her work. The exhibition features a range of pieces that demonstrate her skill and creativity, and it is a testament to her dedication to her craft.
“I was very shy about selling my own art, but I’m thrilled to be able to share it with others. It’s a dream come true to have my own exhibition and to be able to connect with people who appreciate my work.”
A Message to Young Artists
As Kim looks to the future, she hopes to inspire young artists to take a chance on their passions, just as she did. She believes that art has the power to bring people together and to provide a sense of connection and community. “Don’t be afraid to take a risk and pursue your dreams, no matter how old you are. Art has the power to transform and uplift us, and it’s never too late to start creating.”
“My advice to young artists is to be brave, be bold, and never be afraid to try new things.”
It’s clear that Kim Roberts is a true artist at heart, and her passion and creativity are an inspiration to anyone who meets her. Her debut solo exhibition is a testament to her talent and dedication, and it’s a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams and turn your passion into a career. As she says herself, “I’m not just an artist, I’m a storyteller.” Kim Roberts’ artwork is a reflection of her unique perspective and her ability to find beauty in the unexpected. “I love that people see my work and they can tell a story behind it. That’s what makes it so special.” With her unique approach to art and her inspiring story, Kim Roberts is an artist to watch, and her debut solo exhibition is a must-see for anyone who loves art. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Kim Roberts’ debut solo exhibition at Ballymaloe Grainstore until April 21. It’s a truly unforgettable experience. As Kim says, “It’s a dream come true to have my own exhibition and to be able to connect with people who appreciate my work.” For more information on Kim Roberts’ debut solo exhibition, visit the Ballymaloe Grainstore website. Kim Roberts’ artwork is a reflection of her unique perspective and her ability to find beauty in the unexpected. “I love that people see my work and they can tell a story behind it. That’s what makes it so special.” Kim Roberts is a true artist at heart, and her passion and creativity are an inspiration to anyone who meets her. “Don’t be afraid to take a risk and pursue your dreams, no matter how old you are.