I work as an Artist and Woodworker, starting young as apprentice to Artist and Cabinetmaker Jack Devaney in North Dublin. He was a huge influence on my work and gave me a great interest in using recycled materials.  So much so, when I started The Artists Rest Workshop, I built my Studio entirely from recycled materials.

The Workshop is used as a place for Artists and other groups to visit, discuss and plan events and projects for the future.  I have hosted lots of visiting and local Artists who use the space to put together large scale public and school projects.

I lived in Germany for a time in the late 80’s and it was here that I first exhibited my work, in Frankfurt and Berlin. I was bitten by the Art bug and never recovered!

In recent years, I organised Exhibitions and Competitions across North Fingal to help Artists to get their work out on display, including the FACE Of FINGAL Exhibition, and Open Submission Competitions, which were supported by local businesses, and Fingal County Council. 

We have exhibited in many temporary spaces, including the Bracken Court Hotel, The old Church in Balrothery, and Skerries Rugby Club, amongst others.  These Exhibitions focus the need for Artists Studios and a permanent Commercial Exhibition Space in our area.

I am a founding member of the Balbriggan Men’s Shed, and offer support and logistics for this most wonderful group of people.  The Men’s Shed Mental Health project is one that is very close to my heart, and the Lads in the Balbriggan Men’s Shed are brilliant!

In May 2019 I started the North Fingal Book Club, which is another Project to get the Lads and Ladies out and talking to each other.  Details can be found on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/northfingalbookclub or WhatsApp Group North Fingal Book Club.

I participate in Charity Art auctions each year when I can, and I enjoy taking part.  Mental Health Projects are what I readily engage with, having lost several close friends to suicide.

In 2016 I was honoured to receive the Stephen Scarff Community Award for  service to the Community and Arts. This meant a great deal to me on a personal level, given that Stephen was a good friend of mine for many years. I support the rights for everyone to live safely in a good and decent society.

 Finally, I do love to tell a story from time to time.  I participate occasionally in the Dublin Story Slam, a monthly event at the Sugar Club in Dublin. These amazing true stories from everyday people will make you laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time!  The Dublin Story Slam also runs the GRAND SLAM finals in the Abbey Theatre which is a magnificent night for all!

Welcome to my website.

Martin Hughes