Carved from the deep, dark tones of Carlow limestone, The Shy Woman presents a stylised figure shaped by restraint, balance, and quiet presence. Her form is distilled to its essence – a blend of modernist simplicity and ancient stillness – allowing poise and gesture to speak more loudly than detail.
The polished surface of the limestone invites light to travel gently across her contours, suggesting subtle movement within stillness. In contrast, the textured Portland stone base offers a grounding, tactile counterpoint – a roughness that accentuates her refinement. Together, they form a quiet dialogue between shadow and shine, softness and strength.
Despite her name, The Shy Woman is not withdrawn. She is simply self-contained – inwardly focused, calm, and dignified. There is power in her pause, in the space she holds without explanation. As with much of the artist’s work, this sculpture invites reflection not just on form, but on presence – what it means to be seen, and what it means to remain still in a world that constantly moves.
