Milford Care Centre Celebrates First Solo Art Exhibition by Resident Artist Noreen Hartigan

Noreen Hartigan announces first solo exhibition “The Calm Between
Colours”

“The Calm Between Colours” by Noreen Hartigan Showcases a Remarkable Journey of Healing, Hope and Creative Rediscovery

Milford Care Centre is proud to announce the opening of “The Calm Between
Colours,” the first solo exhibition by resident artist Noreen Hartigan, a collection of
deeply personal paintings that tell a powerful story of resilience, healing and renewal.
The exhibition marks a significant milestone in Noreen’s life and artistic journey,
demonstrating the transformative impact of creativity and community support.

Curated through the collaboration and encouragement of Milford Care Centre’s Art
Facilitator, Aisling O’Sullivan, the exhibition highlights artwork inspired by colour,
memory and the simple beauty of everyday objects, particularly bottles, which feature
prominently throughout Noreen’s collection. Drawn to their distinctive shapes and
colours since childhood, these familiar forms became the foundation for a creative
practice that has grown into a celebrated body of work.

For Noreen, art was not always a source of confidence. Despite encouragement as a
child to participate in various activities, she often felt she did not belong and struggled
to believe in her own creative abilities. Dissatisfied with her work, she eventually
stopped creating art altogether, setting aside a passion that would remain dormant for
many years.

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Life became increasingly challenging in later years as Noreen experienced declining
health, loss of mobility and repeated falls. At the same time, her lifelong partner, Adrian,
was living with Alzheimer’s disease. What was intended to be a temporary stay at
Milford Care Centre eventually became her home during one of the most difficult
periods of her life.

Through the kindness, encouragement and support of staff and fellow residents, Noreen
gradually began to rebuild her confidence and sense of self. An invitation to join an art
group proved to be a turning point. Under Aisling’s guidance, she rediscovered her love
of painting and found a welcoming environment where creativity could flourish without
judgement.

As her confidence grew, a small studio space was created in her room, allowing her to
paint whenever inspiration struck. Supported by staff and encouraged by regular visits
from Aisling, Noreen developed a dedicated artistic practice that became central to her
wellbeing. Her artwork soon sparked conversations, admiration and connection
throughout the care centre community.

Reflecting on the role art has played in her life, Noreen describes painting as an
essential part of her healing journey. Through colour and creativity, she found a way to express emotions that often felt beyond words. Each painting became a reflection of her
experiences, helping her process grief, loneliness and depression while also celebrating
hope and recovery.

Today, at the age of 69, Noreen proudly embraces a new identity as an artist. Her
exhibition stands as a testament to the belief that it is never too late to discover new
passions, purpose and possibilities. Although Adrian has since passed away, Noreen
says he would have been immensely proud of everything she has achieved.
Aisling O’Sullivan believes Noreen’s story demonstrates the profound value of creative
engagement in care settings.

“Noreen’s journey reminds us that creativity is about far more than producing beautiful
artwork. Through painting she rediscovered confidence, connection, belonging and
purpose. Her story is a powerful reminder that every person deserves the opportunity to
find meaning and joy, regardless of age or circumstance.”

“The Calm Between Colours” is dedicated to Adrian, Noreen’s family, friends and the
staff of Milford Care Centre, whose unwavering support has accompanied her
throughout her journey. By sharing her story and artwork, Noreen hopes to inspire and
encourage others who may be facing challenges in their own lives, proving that hope,
creativity and new beginnings can emerge in the most unexpected places