Art
Young Limerick artists shine at Texaco Children’s Art Competition
Young Limerick artists shine at the 2026 Texaco Children’s Art Competition. Clare O’Malley, of Catherine McAuley School, with her artwork and her mother Tara, brother Seán and father John
Young Limerick artists have received national recognition as part of the 2026 Texaco Children’s Art Competition
Limerick’s young artistic talent has been recognised at the 72nd Texaco Children’s Art Competition, following the announcement of this year’s winners at the annual ceremony in Dublin.
‘The Amazing Tinks’ by 16-year-old Claire O’Malley, a Catherine McAuley School student, claimed first prize in Category G of the competition, a section reserved for artists with additional needs.
The Amazing Tinks secured the top award in the category, claiming a top prize of €1,500 and the artwork was praised by judges for its creativity and originality.
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
Claire’s impressive artwork was described by Irish visual artist, curator and educator Pauline O’Connell, who was final adjudicator, as “an acrylic paint and wool collage combined in a confident and imaginative work. The dog, rendered in soft chenille wool, introduces a rich tactile quality, while its proud stance and turned head bring personality and presence to the composition.”
Fellow Catherine McAuley School student Blake O’Brien, took third prize in the category for his piece ‘Year of the Bird’, which Ms O’Connell described as “an abstract composition that, at first glance, suggests an organic form, almost like a cross-section of a pomegranate, but on closer inspection, a white bird begins to emerge, rewarding careful looking.”
The overall winner of the national competition was Kilkenny student Aurianna Hanlon, whose self-portrait Falling Up won the senior 16–18 age category and the overall title.
Pauline O’Connell, an Irish visual artist, curator and educator, said the standard of entries this year demonstrated “technical control and emotional depth” across a wide range of artistic styles.
Speaking at the awards ceremony in Dublin, James Twohig of Valero Energy, said, “From the many entries received this year, it is clear that young people across Ireland continue to embrace art as a meaningful outlet for imagination and creativity. The quality of the prize-winning works on display today is a strong reflection of their dedication and talent.
“We are also grateful for the continued encouragement and support provided by parents and teachers, whose roles remain central in nurturing this artistic ability and helping the Competition to continue to thrive year after year.”
The Texaco Children’s Art Competition is regarded as the longest-running sponsorship in the history of arts sponsorship in Ireland, with an unbroken history that dates back to the very first competition held in 1955.
New Report Challenges Stereotypes as Single Women in Ireland Report High Levels of Happiness
WATCH Spotlight Stage School celebrates 40 Years and welcomes past pupil Stephen O’Riain to the team
Limerick Pride returns 6–11 July 2026 with the theme “Pride in Our Community”
Why is the Shannon River popular for boating holidays?
Cook Medical celebrates 30th Anniversary in Limerick as a strategic global hub
5 events in Limerick this weekend, June 12 – June 14
Three Limerick finalists announced for Miss Universe Ireland 2026
WATCH End of an era as La Piccola Italia to close its doors after 46 years
Please VOTE for Learning Hub Limerick who have a chance to receive €20,000 from the AIB 1 Million Fund!
