Helen Mahaffey is a London Irish fine artist and a practicing Systemic Psychotherapist who has
painted throughout her life. She studied at Goldsmiths Collage of Art before taking different
further training and professional paths in movement studies, community and family work.
Alongside painting she has worked in the field of systemic psychotherapy over the past two
decades and has obtained a professional Doctorate in this capacity. She has felt privileged to
work alongside children, young people, and so many passionately committed colleagues
across different nhs, community health and social care contexts.   
 
She is inspired by the wild beauty of natural landscapes, spending much time painting between the
west coast of Ireland, the UK and Spain. Through the process of painting Helen relishes an experience of
freedom whilst trying to convey the ever-changing light, the infinite range of colour and
shade it casts over hills, mountains, sea and flora. She grapples in her work with a sense of
urgency and excitement to capture the unfolding drama and raw energy; the experience of light
as it breaks through the clouds, the power of the thundering waves, the sharp colour after
the storm.  

Her portraits also hope to capture the character and feel of the sitter, whilst her city scapes
similarly look to express the mood and atmosphere of a moment.
 
Helen primarily paints with oils and acrylic on canvas however she also turns to other items
and surfaces to paint on, for example wood panels from old furniture; that become up-cycled
art resources with different effects. 

Helen has exhibited in a variety of locations in London. She has worked artistically with
community groups designing and facilitating a group mural. Helen has also contributed
illustrations for books and for film. She is always excited by co-evolving new projects and
working organically and collaboratively.
 
Helen feels that art is part of our being; it is inclusive, to be shared and is an enriching
experience that speaks to us all in so many different and meaningful ways. She invites the
viewer through many varied and diverse eyes to bring something new and unique to her
paintings. This adds to this whole adventure which Helen hopes becomes a collective
experience.