Originally from Ennis, visual artist Michelle Fallon Toft is currently based in Corofin, Co. Clare. Her love of painting, drawing and sketching began in early childhood. She explores a variety of mediums such as drawing, acrylic, pastel, oil, mixed media and ceramics in her work. Michelle’s artwork is inspired by nature and her aim is to portray the theme of life, its’ beauty, joy and suffering. She is interested in our relationship and connection to nature and creativity and has in her practice experienced a growing awareness of how essential exposure to both nature and creativity is to her own and others’ well being.
Collaborative exhibitions:
- App Art, Ennistymon Art School, 2021.
- Nature Nurture, Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon, 2008.
- International Women’s’ Day, Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis, 2008.
- Home to the Unknown Artist, curated by Rosie Gowran, Ennis, 2008.
Solo exhibitions:
- Café Aroma, Ennis, 2009
- Seedsavers, Scariff, 2009
Arts and Education
Michelle also has vast experience working in the field of arts and education both primary (Ireland and UK) and secondary schools (UK) in mainstream and special needs. She has also worked as a creative facilitator with youth organisations such as the Corofin Youth Club and with the ISPCC. Alongside these practices she often works with festivals and events as a professional face painter.
In 2021 Michelle was granted the Teacher Artists Partnership Award through the Clare Education Centre and Clare Arts Office.
Select qualifications:
- TAP (teacher artist partnership) training and residency, Clare Education Centre, 2021
- LCEBT QQI PLC Art Course, Ennistymon, 2021
- Child First Protection Policy, TULSA, 2018
- Child Protection Awareness Programme, Youth Work Ireland, 2018
- Child Mentoring Programme, ISPCC, 2018
- Art Therapy Summer School, Crawford College of Art & Design,2012
