Miriam Foley was born in Waterford city and grew up in Ring where she enjoyed the benefits and freedom of the Gaeltacht. She trained as a nurse and worked as ward sister in St. Vincent’s Private Hospital, Dublin over many years. After the birth of her son, Joseph, she returned home to live and work in An Rinn.

Her artistic journey began during lockdown. Unable to have a birthday party her sisters and son gave her a present of a pup and a set of paints. Never having held a paint brush or had any classes she began at her kitchen table. Her first painting was of her springer Brac and so her love of painting began. She hasn’t stopped since! Her medium of choice is acrylic on canvas. Miriam has exhibited at a few private events but Joan Clancy Gallery 25th Anniversary Celebration is her first public group show.