Former Evening Echo reporter and Bandon native Deirdre O’Reilly’s life changed forever after a devastating stroke in 2013, leaving her unable to read or write. Yet from that profound loss emerged an extraordinary new beginning.
With no formal training or prior experience, Deirdre turned to painting as part of her rehabilitation. What began as a simple therapeutic exercise soon transformed into a powerful act of self-expression. Through art, she discovered a new language—one shaped by color, texture, and light—allowing her to communicate when words no longer could.
Working from her home in Bandon, Deirdre draws deep inspiration from the landscapes of Ireland, celebrating the enduring spirit of the land and its people. Each piece reflects not only place and memory, but resilience, renewal, and hope.
Her art stands as both a personal triumph and an invitation to others: to see beauty in perseverance, strength in vulnerability, and possibility in transformation.
Deirdre’s work is currently on exhibition at The Grey Heron Gift Shop and Gallery in Bandon town centre, where it can be viewed until March.
