Art, Slate & Stories
About Kate
Almost 25 Years of Creating Something Unique
For almost 25 years, I have been creating unique, hand-painted artworks on reclaimed slate from my studio and shop in Ballydesmond, North Cork.
Art on Slate began with a simple idea. I had seen slate products in shops, but I had never seen slate painted. I decided to paint a piece myself and, on my very first creation, I added a clock.
Something just clicked.
I remember thinking, this is the business I need to start.
I had no business experience and very little idea what lay ahead, but I took the leap. That first piece of painted slate became the beginning of a journey that has continued for almost 25 years.
From one painted piece of slate to a lifetime of stories.
What began as a simple idea has grown into a creative business whose pieces have found their way into homes and collections throughout Ireland and around the world.
From a Simple Idea to Art on Slate
I initially began by hiring floor space in Merchant’s Quay Shopping Centre, where I was fortunate to receive considerable publicity.
For many years afterwards, I travelled throughout Munster, attending shows and events every few weeks to introduce people to my work.
Through word of mouth, my little business gradually grew far beyond what I could ever have imagined.
Today, my pieces have found their way into homes and collections throughout Ireland and have also been sent to many countries around the world.
The Material
My Canvas Has a History
Much of the slate I work with has already lived a life before it reaches my studio.
One Idea. One Story. One Unique Piece.
I create bespoke gifts, presentation pieces, awards, memorials and commissioned artworks, and no two pieces are quite the same.
Sometimes the request is simple. Sometimes it is something completely different. That’s what I love about working with slate — there is always another story to tell and another idea to bring to life.
Let the words tell the story.
Words are an important part of my work. I write much of my own poetry and often incorporate poems, sayings, quotations and personal messages into my designs.
Customers can also bring their own words and ideas, allowing the
finished piece to tell a story that is uniquely theirs.
A name, a date, a favourite saying, a poem or a personal message can transform a beautiful piece of artwork into something deeply meaningful.
Words & Meaning
Sometimes the most meaningful part is what you say.
Poems, sayings, quotations and personal messages can transform a beautiful piece of artwork into something deeply personal.
Words & Meaning
Every Commission Begins With a Conversation
Understanding the person, the occasion and the story behind a piece is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
01
Tell Me Your Idea
Whether you have a clear design in mind or simply a starting point, every commission begins with a
conversation.
02
Make It Personal
03
Bring It to Life
04
Create Something Unique
Presentation Pieces & Special Occasions
My work has been chosen for numerous high-profile presentations across political, sporting, social and community settings.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of creating and presenting pieces for a wide range of organisations and occasions, including presentations to figures such as Roy Keane, Paul McGrath, Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese.
I also create bespoke presentation pieces, awards and competition prizes for clubs, organisations, sporting events and community occasions.
Every Piece Has a Story to Tell.
From a small piece of reclaimed slate to a completely bespoke commission, every creation is made with care, thought and attention to detail.
Every piece is unique. Every piece is handcrafted and painted by me in my studio here in Ballydesmond, Co. Cork.
Follow ArtOnSlate on Instagram
@artonslate.kate
