Nicole Manning is a Dublin-based artist specializing in painting, whose work delves into the externalization of inner turmoil within the human experience. Her recent focus centers on the intricate interplay between trauma and physical embodiment, with a particular emphasis on the profound connections between mental health and chronic stomach pain (ie: the brain-gut connection) Manning's art is deeply autobiographical, rendering her own experiences with visceral authenticity.

 

Within her studio practice, she has cultivated a distinctive style that blends symbolism with emotive figurative forms. Her paintings frequently depict curled bodies and animals, depicting both the shape of the stomach and the agony of chronic pain. Central themes in her oeuvre include the common symptoms of PTSD, represented through symbols such as the deer, isolated beds, and dogs. Inspired by artists like Tracey Emin, Frida Kahlo, and Cecily Brown, Manning employs gestural brushwork and abstract elements to convey the depth of human emotion.

​

Manning's work is characterized by a commitment to highlighting the invisible complexities of chronic pain and mental health struggles. Through her art, she seeks to provoke a deeper understanding and empathy for these pervasive issues, inviting viewers to engage with the unseen narratives that shape our lives.

​

Manning is a recent graduate of NCAD having completed her BA joint degree in Fine Art Painting & Education, in which her degree show “To continue to live even when you don’t have the Stomach for it,” took place in the beginning of June. After completing her degree, she was awarded the Clancy Quay Residency, which provides a dedicated studio space in Island Bridge until July 2025 and a place in the esteemed Superprojects Professionalism Programme. Her work has been well-received, with paintings acquired for private collections and frequent sales. Currently, she is one of six practicing artists at Clancy Quay Studios.

​

For inquiries, collaborations, or to arrange a studio visit, please contact Nicole at nicolemanning15@gmail.com