Ask a Local: Explore Galway Through the Eyes of Artist Finbar McHugh
The work of artist Finbar McHugh graces the walls of many Galway homes and businesses, not to mention several of the city's walls through his vibrant and beautiful murals. Here, he shares his favourite city rituals, and top places to eat, drink and enjoy Galway.
I’m very lucky to live in Wood Quay – I walk out of the front door and I follow the river down through the city. I love to follow the waterways, I find it very grounding. You come here and you are slowed down as opposed to sped up, which is rare for city energy.
Nature is hugely influential to my creative process – I create 80 per cent of my work outside. It brings an aliveness to the work that wouldn’t necessarily come through if I didn't put myself into or respond to the environment that I’m in.
Local favourites for delicious bites and treats
I like to pop into Gourmet Tart Company for my brown bread. We’re also so lucky to be able to get all-organic beautiful veggies dropped at our door from Green Earth Organics. There’s such wisdom and respect for the land and it’s amazing to see how people are putting so much effort into that.
For coffee, depending on my mood, I’ll either go to Ciarlantini, a little Italian café or Tribe, which has been open for a year or two.
I love supporting people in the community.
Charlie Byrnes and the Galway Market. Photography by Nathalie Marquez Courtney.
If someone is visiting, I always recommend they get to the Galway Market, because it's where you’ll feel the energy and the flow of Galway.
I’m loving The Cornstore right now, it feels like it’s gotten a revival. You’ve got Charlie Byrnes as the staple, of course, and then Magpie for lovely treats.
Outset Gallery is also there and it's lovely space – they’re putting on work that is not just for buying, but is for experiencing. We lack that on a year-round basis as a city of culture.
I love to pick up a sambo from Hāpi Bakery at Plámás to grab and go – I’ll head out to the Coral Beach with it and that’s me set.