Paul Rose was born in Gravesend, Kent in 1958. He moved to Mayo, Ireland, in 1995 with his family. Rose worked as a registered nurse until 2003, when he was injured at work after being assaulted by a patient. This incident left him disabled both physically and mentally. With a long-standing love for the arts, he took up painting as a therapeutic outlet. He later studied art and design at GMIT, Castlebar, graduating with a BA in 2012. Rose’s exhibitions aim to convey scenarios through Abstract Expressionism, focusing on internal emotions rather than external appearances. His work invites viewers to develop their imaginations and evoke emotional responses, allowing each person to derive their own unique interpretation. Rose has participated in numerous group exhibitions, earning accolades such as Best in Show at the Linenhall Arts Centre. His solo exhibitions span various venues, including The Signal Arts Center and Gallery 27 in Dublin. Today, Paul Rose lives and works in Mayo, Ireland.
Paul Rose’s artistic journey began as a form of therapy after a traumatic incident at work. The assault, which left him with depression and PTSD, marked a turning point in his life. While attending psychiatric daycare, Rose found solace in art therapy. This new creative outlet allowed him to process his emotions and experiences. What started as a means of coping evolved into a passionate pursuit of art, ultimately leading him to formalize his skills at GMIT, Castlebar.
Rose’s work is characterized by its roots in Abstract Expressionism. This artistic movement emphasizes the depiction of emotions and ideas rather than realistic representations of the world. For Rose, this meant channeling his internal struggles and experiences onto the canvas. His paintings are not just visual representations but emotional landscapes, inviting viewers to explore the depths of their own feelings.
One series by Rose is “Coffee Break at Art Therapy.” This collection of paintings has a deeply personal backstory. During his time at the psychiatric daycare, Rose became intrigued by the personalities and emotions of his fellow patients. He began sketching them during coffee breaks, capturing their essence on paper. The backgrounds of these paintings are stained with coffee, symbolizing the therapeutic environment in which they were created. This series exemplifies Rose’s ability to turn his observations and experiences into profound works of art.
Rose’s exhibitions are designed to engage the viewer on an emotional level. He aims to create scenarios within his paintings that resonate with the audience. Each piece is a journey into the artist’s psyche, yet it leaves room for individual interpretation. This approach allows viewers to connect with the artwork in a personal way, making each experience unique.
Throughout his career, Rose has participated in numerous group exhibitions. His work has been showcased at events such as Art Against Stigma at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar, Mayo, where he received two Best in Show awards. He has also exhibited at the Mayo Artist Show on three occasions, the 2012 Volvo World Yacht Race in Galway, the Mac Gallery in Northern Ireland, the Westport Arts Festival in Mayo, and the Ballyhaunis Open in Mayo.
In addition to group exhibitions, Rose has held several solo exhibitions. These include shows at The Signal Arts Center in Bray, The Irish Heritage Museum in Mayo, Gallery 27 in Dublin, Hyde Bridge Gallery in Sligo, Courthouse Gallery in Ennistymon, and even in the Algarve, Portugal. Each of these exhibitions has provided Rose with an opportunity to delve deeper into his artistic expression and share his journey with others.
Living and working in Mayo, Ireland, Paul Rose continues to create art that speaks to the human condition. His paintings are a testament to the power of resilience and the therapeutic potential of creative expression. Despite the challenges he has faced, Rose has found a way to turn his pain into beauty, offering a glimpse into the complexities of the human experience.
In conclusion, Paul Rose’s journey from a nurse to an artist is a story of transformation and healing. His work, deeply rooted in Abstract Expressionism, allows viewers to explore the emotions and experiences that shape our lives. Through his exhibitions, Rose invites us to see the world through his eyes, to feel the depth of his experiences, and to find our own meaning in his art.
