We chatted with Galway-Based and New Ross-Native artist Ciaran Brennan aka “Yohan” the man behind the magnificent image of New Ross.
Why the name “Yohan” ?
Yohan was one of my Nicknames in secondary school so when I set up my first online portfolio in 2004 (on Deviantart) I used it as a pseudonym.
Where do you pull your inspiration from ?
From absolutely everywhere! I have the opposite of artist block. I currently have a giant lever arch folder full to the brim of unused ideas – Someday I will get to them all.
If you were to describe your artist style ?
I consider myself an artistic chameleon and I love drifting between different styles and techniques.
Who are your biggest influences ?
My Favourite artists growing up were artists like Salvador Dali, M.C Escher and the Old Masters. Since the arrival of the Internet 2.0 my list of influences would be too long to mention.
If you have to sum up New Ross in 3 words ?
Homely, Historical, Handsome
What is New Ross’s biggest selling point in your opinion when marketing to a potential visitor
New Ross is extremely rich in History, this is a lucrative asset that can’t be bought and this is attractive to visitors.
How have you developed your career?
My career has changed and developed dramatically over the years . I’ve worked in a huge variety of areas including Painting, Advertising , Film , Concept art , Theatre, Sculpture and Workshop teaching to name a few. My goal is to continually develop my skills and try new things.
Which current art world trends are you following ?
My Instagram feed is full of Houdini abstract particle 3d work at the moment, it’s an area I know very little about so I really want to learn how it’s done.
If we asked you one thing that has stood out to you while living in Galway that the locals do incredibly which New Ross could learn from ?
There’s a festival atmosphere in Galway, especially in the summer, there’s a feeling that something is happening down every street and through every door. This atmosphere is created by people working together. I think this is something New Ross could learn from and build on.
