On the spot with: Clanabogan artist Sarah McConville

Inspired to create by award-winning Japanese animator and genius, Hayao Miyazaki, artist Sarah McConville says that she will ‘never stop creating art’.

The 23-year-old often fills her inner and outer worlds with canvases of colour; describing art as her ‘escape from everything’.

A hobby that she will never take for granted, the Clanabogan engineering student’s works – including stunning pencil portraits; animals which come to life in watercolours; and thoughtful digital paintings of rolling landscapes – can be found and enjoyed on her Facebook page, ‘Art by Sarah’.

If you could be invisible for a day, what would you do?

Stow away on a luxury cruise and visit places for free!

What is your least appealing habit?

I have a bad habit of overthinking.

What is your greatest trait?

Patience to finish things that I start.

If you could ask God one question, what would it be?

“Is it all-inclusive up there?”

Did you have a role model as a youth?

My mum is my role model. She has shown me how to be a strong, assertive woman.

How would you describe Tyrone to someone who has never been here before?

My family in Lurgan often ask “How is Tyrone; what’s it like there?” And I reply, “People are so friendly, and wave at you as you pass by in the car even if you don’t know them.”

What are you watching on television?

The Apprentice.

Tell us a song that reminds you of your childhood.

My mum loves ‘The Beautiful South’, so I remember hearing ‘A Little Time’ being played on repeat on hot summer days.

Who is your favourite musician?

I like all music. I really love ABBA.

What is your favourite film?

Sister Act.

Has there been a defining moment in your life that has got you to where you are today?

I knew I wanted to go to university, but I just missed out on the grades required. I took it upon myself to repeat A-Level maths at my own expense to get the grade I needed. Now, the reality is that I am currently studying my dream degree: MEng Structural Engineering. I’m in my third year, and setting a strong course for my future career.

What is the most embarrassing thing you have done?

It happened recently actually through all the online teaching at university; I’ll never forget it. Retelling it is bringing on cold sweats!

Picture a Teams meeting with about 100 people in it; it’s a bigger class, and the lecturer wouldn’t be on a first-name basis with anyone, and everyone’s camera and mic must be turned off. It was a 9am lecture so obviously I was lying in bed listening and taking notes. Suddenly, all I hear is “Sarah. Can you please turn off your camera?” There’s me, laying on my bed, crazy hair, double chin. Mortified.

What is your favourite memory?

Lying on a duvet cover on the grass reading ‘The Faraway Tree’ on a hot summer’s day at my grandparent’s house.

And your saddest?

When my Granda didn’t come home from hospital.

What makes you angry?

Dishonest people.

What is your most treasured possession?

My pillow.

Do you have a catchphrase?

“Listen Linda”.

What’s your tipple?

I love a glass of Captain Morgan Spiced Rum and Coke. It’s a classic.

Who would play you in a film of your life?

Emma Watson.

What has been your greatest achievement?

Playing the piano. I’ve been teaching myself from the age of ten, and can proudly say that I can now play to a very high standard.

What is your life’s motto?

“It is what it is” is my saying. Don’t overthink things when they are out of your control.

What song would you like played at your funeral?

I am only 23. Ask me again if I make it to 50.