If you ever wondered what really goes on day to day at Greenway Lane Art Studio, the short answer is: paint, laughter, a bit of organised chaos, and the occasional alpaca interruption.
Most days begin in the studio with brushes out, music on, and canvases slowly filling with layers of bogland colour. There’s something grounding about working here — the quiet of the landscape, the changing light, and the sense that time stretches a little longer than it does elsewhere. Some days are deeply focused, others wonderfully messy, but every day brings its own small surprises.
Between painting sessions, there’s always preparation happening in the background. With exhibitions on the horizon, there’s framing to be done, works to be reviewed (and sometimes reworked), and plenty of cups of tea while deciding what makes the final cut. Getting ready for exhibitions is exciting, nerve-wracking, and very satisfying — especially knowing the work is heading out into the world carrying a little piece of Mayo with it.
There’s also a lovely buzz building around the studio as we look ahead to opening the Greenway Lane café in late spring. Plans are being sketched, shelves imagined, and ideas swapped about how to make it a welcoming place to sit, chat, and soak up a bit of creativity. We’re dreaming of good coffee, homemade treats, and visitors lingering a little longer after an art class or studio visit.
And then, of course, there are the alpacas.
No blog about Greenway Lane would be complete without mentioning them. They are very much part of daily life here — curious, calm, and always ready to wander over and see what’s going on. They have an uncanny ability to lift the mood instantly and remind us not to take things too seriously. Many a serious studio discussion has been derailed by an alpaca appearing at the window, looking in as if to say, “What are you working on today?”
Teaching art is another highlight of studio life. From beginners picking up a brush for the first time to more experienced artists developing their practice, the studio is a place of shared creativity, encouragement, and plenty of laughter. There’s nothing better than seeing someone surprised by what they’re capable of creating.
Greenway Lane Studio is still growing, evolving, and finding its rhythm — but that’s part of the joy. It’s a place where art, landscape, community, coffee (soon!), and alpacas all meet. We’re looking forward to welcoming more people through the doors in the months ahead and sharing this little corner of creativity with you.
Pop in, say hello, and don’t forget to greet the alpacas — they’ll be expecting you.
