She joined other notable award recipients this year, including Colm Tóbín for literature, Eileen Dunne for broadcasting, and author and filmmaker Dr Mary Pat Kelly, who was named Person of the Year.
The event, at Chicago’s Irish American Heritage Centre, the largest of its kind in the world, was attended by 500 of the city’s noted personalities, including Irish Consul General Kevin Byrne, for a programme showcasing Irish art and film, a painting demonstration by Róisín O’Farrell, live music, panel discussions, and author talks.
The award recognises Róisín’s contribution to the arts and her international success, painting vibrant, emotionally resonant works that capture the essence of home, family, and the human spirit.
Her lifelong work in teaching, encouraging and empowering women to live bigger, more meaningful, creative lives, was also acknowledged.
Congratulating the Irish artist, Cliff Carlson, Co-Founder of IBAM, the organisation that celebrates Irish books, arts and music, said Róisín is a “unique find in the arts”.
“She is such a charismatic individual, who is not just a skilled artist and businesswoman, but who also has a special gift for encouraging and connecting others,” he said.
Accepting the international award, Róisín credited her family’s creative legacy for inspiring her artistic journey and instilling in her the belief that it is never too late to start a new life and that creativity is at the heart of change.
“This award is more than just a recognition of my art; it’s a testament to the power of resilience, the beauty of embracing change, and the unwavering belief that it’s never too late to start anew,” she said.
“In the last few tumultuous years, I have gone from teaching art online across the world, to now leading transformative creative retreats, in-person, in Ireland, Malta, and in the US, which is incredibly satisfying.”
Kathy Kelly, Gallery Manager at Chicago’s Irish American Heritage Centre, and an IBAM committee member, praised the level of engagement and encouragement the Irish artist brought to the weekend’s art workshops.
“Her passion for her profession came through in her exceptional speech. Calling for one to ‘Go Big’ with your dreams, listen to your heart, and bring your creative energy to all that you do.
“Roisin also graced us with a demonstration of her oil painting techniques on day two that lasted over three hours, delivered in her entertaining and charming manner. While her palette knife danced across the canvas, there was a buzz of energy in the air, that comes from bringing a work of art to life. Our guests were mesmerised.”
Róisín is hoping the US award platform will extend awareness of her art and teaching work.
“I am among a rare breed of Irish artists, managing to make a living doing what I love, creating and teaching art. So, I do count myself fortunate,” she said. “Being awarded this prize in Chicago is like the icing on the cake, and a super honour when you think of Ireland’s immense artistic talent.”
Róisín O’Farrell’s family, from Dalkey and Kinsale, is steeped in art. Her mother, Patricia Aherne O’Farrell, is also a talented artist. Living in Bray, Róisín says the light and landscape on the east coast fuels her artistic energy.
Ironically, being made redundant in 2009 propelled the talented Irish artist from the world of business into creative pursuits. Posting her works on social media quickly led to gallery representation and a first sell-out solo show in 2010.
Since her discovery, her work has been widely exhibited in established galleries across Ireland and the UK, with sell-out exhibitions in London, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Barcelona and in the United States.
A mum to two daughters, Róisín is both a passionate artist and teacher, deeply committed to nurturing creativity in others. She teaches and, more recently, hosts inspirational artists retreats in Ireland, the USA and in Malta.
Award organiser, IBAM Chicago, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to celebrating Irish literature, arts and music, since 2009.
Previous award winners include Liam Neeson, Gabriel Byrne, Jim Sheridan and Stephen Rae for Performing Arts; musicians Sharon Shannon, Maura O’Connell, and Daniel O’Donnell; writers Colum McCann, Marian Keyes and Tim Pat Coogan, and artists Phillip Gray, Jim Fitzpatrick and Robert Ballagh.