Artist Catherine Mc Cue Boes

Hand coloured linocut, first state. I first encountered May in the hospital, where she was confined to a bed opposite.  I initially perceived her as elderly due to her inability to move independently. However, my perception shifted when I attempted to seize her wheelchair. A diminutive yet resolute voice asserted that it belonged to her. Upon acknowledging my error, I approached her to offer an apology, thereby initiating our conversation. To my surprise, May was in her early 60s and had Multiple Myeloma (MMD), which had progressed to its final stages. Her voice was gentle and she retained complete awareness of her surroundings. Consequently, we embarked on a conversation about her passion for art, particularly Chagall. She expressed a desire to soar above the rooftops and observe the landscape of her childhood. These sentiments, along with other stories she shared, have inspired my latest artistic endeavour. While I am uncertain whether I have adequately captured her essence, ...

Saint Catherine, the Fish Keeper  Catherine is not a saint; she is the caretaker of fish that demand significant attention and resources. She desires to release them, but she keeps them for someone she loves, and their departure would cause them distress. Nevertheless, if she were able to capture and release them, her own life would also be liberated. Linocut, gold leaf, chine colle  40x37 cm edition 10   The idea for this work wasn’t difficult; anyone who knows me well will understand the irony in it.  

In the studio, work continues.  It  has been quite a while since I have time to get back to arts practice. Circumstances in my private life have resulted in an adjustment to my priorities in life. Being a full-time carer has left little time for creative activities, and I often find myself yearning for the artistic expression that once filled my days with joy. It has taken me four years to perfect a time management plan that accommodates both my caregiving responsibilities and my desire to create. This plan allows me a few hours a week to once again spend time in the studio, and during these moments, I immerse myself in my art as a refuge from the demands of my life. The few hours I spend in the studio are not only therapeutic but also rejuvenating. I find that the pressure of my current situation is reduced exponentially when I am engaged in the act of creating. My current work is based on a personal narrative, using linocut as a starting point, and it serves as a reflection ...

Letting go and accepting change! Nine months have elapsed since my husband suffered a stroke. I believed that our world and his would disintegrate into endless hours at the hospital, filled with dread as each passing day brought uncertainty about his survival, ability to walk, or speak again. We have returned to a life that is altered, challenging, and at times, heart-wrenching. Each day presents new difficulties, and my victories and defeats are uncertain. His progress is gradual; walking is arduous for him, and his speech is reduced to indistinct mumbles, accompanied by frustration. He comprehends his desires but struggles to articulate them. As time passes, we will make the most of each day, regardless of its nature. The absence of friends is noticeable, and only a few remain in touch. It is unsettling for others to comprehend that he remains the same man—he still requires companionship. Big Kate..my Albion printing press has gone, no doubt the first of many things to leave us, sad ...

 Artist book, experimental linocut, hand coloured digital background. 

Invitation for ink masters print exhibition.  

My artist’s book, a significant work, has been accepted into the InkMasters print award. It is an immense honour to be part of this esteemed exhibition, alongside many renowned artists. Thank you for this opportunity.