By Erich Falconer, Falconers Undertakers
Honouring lives, holding stories, and welcoming art that speaks to the heart.
At Falconers, we’ve learned that art can hold what words sometimes cannot. It can bring warmth into a quiet room and light into the heaviest of days. Since opening our doors to local artists, we’ve seen rooms soften, conversations begin, and small moments of peace appear where they’re most needed.
Today, we are proud to feature the work of Carol Murray, a Waterford artist whose drawings of birds, a robin and a raven, have brought new life and reflection to our Tramore parlour.
Meet the Artist
Carol shared words that touched us deeply:
“I’m a local animal artist from Waterford. I mainly create pet portraits, but I’ve also become known as ‘The Robin Lady.’ My favourite birds to draw and paint are robins and ravens. Both are symbols of the circle of life, and I feel they belong here, where remembrance and love are held close.”
Carol’s work is born from care and connection. She draws from life, from nature, and from the quiet spaces between both. Each piece feels alive with attention and sincerity, as though her pencil listens as much as it creates.
The Two Drawings: Stillness and Spirit
The Robin
Ink and watercolour on paper, framed
A moment of stillness on a branch, a warm red chest that seems to hold a quiet breath.
In soft pencil and gentle colour, Carol’s robin perches on a branch as if caught in a pause between light and silence. Its red breast glows softly against pale feathers, a tender reminder of presence, memory, and the beauty of the everyday.
The Raven
Ink and watercolour on paper, framed
Wing and shadow, a watchful presence that feels strong and protective.
The raven, drawn in deep graphite, carries power and grace. Its wings are open, eyes sharp and alive, each feather rendered with care. There’s strength here, not cold or distant, but protective and steady.
Together, these two works balance light and dark, hope and endurance, presence and reflection.
A Moment We Will Remember
A gentleman visiting recently stopped for a long time in front of the raven. When he turned, he said quietly, “I feel as if someone is watching over me. The robin makes me feel held, and the raven makes me feel safe.”
It was a moment we will not forget. Moments like that are why we began this art exhibition, to give families time and space to find meaning, to connect, and to feel something gentle and true.
Since Carol’s drawings arrived, the atmosphere in the parlour has changed. The team often pauses as they pass, drawn to the robin’s warmth or the raven’s calm strength. There’s something reassuring about them, as though the room itself listens when you stop to look.
Why Carol’s Work Belongs Here
Carol’s drawings are more than art. They are symbols of connection, between life and memory, presence and reflection. In many Irish homes, a robin at the window is spoken of with affection, a small sign that love stays close. The raven, equally revered, is seen as a guardian of wisdom and renewal.
These two pieces belong here, among families and stories that deserve gentleness and beauty. They speak softly but stay with you long after you’ve looked away.
A Few Words from Erich
“Carol’s drawings have changed the room. The robin brings warmth, the raven brings strength, and together they invite people to pause. Families often share their own stories as they stand there. These pieces remind us that even in silence, love can be felt.” Erich Falconer.
About the Artist: Carol Murray
Based in Tramore, Co. Waterford, Carol Murray is a visual artist inspired by the animals, landscapes, and people that surround her. Her art captures the quiet presence of the world around us, from the wild birds she meets on her walks to the pets whose portraits she lovingly creates for families.
While she has worked in oil, pencil, and other media, Carol has found a particular joy in combining ink’s precision with watercolour’s soft vibrancy. Her aim is always to capture not just the likeness of an animal, but its spirit, that spark of life and personality that makes every subject unique.
Whenever possible, she spends time with the animals she draws, letting their energy guide the work. It’s a gentle process that results in portraits filled with warmth, recognition, and feeling.
In addition to her commissioned portraits, Carol has illustrated a children’s book by local author Carole York, combining her love of animals and storytelling in a way that supports animal welfare in Ireland, a reflection of her belief that art can nurture kindness, compassion, and connection.
Visit, Reflect, Connect
Both drawings are available for purchase. If one of them speaks to you, please ask at reception or send us a message, we’ll connect you with Carol directly.
Carol also accepts commissions for pet portraits and custom work. You can find her on Facebook and Instagram .
Visitors are welcome to view the pieces during normal hours or by appointment. If you’d like to arrange a quiet visit, just reach out to our team.
Supporting Artists, Supporting Families
Since launching our community art exhibition, we’ve seen the difference it makes. Families pause. They reflect. They talk. Art brings colour, light, and peace into our spaces.
To every artist who has shared their work with us, Esther, Deirdre, Lillian, Karen, and now Carol, thank you. You have brought hope, creativity, and care to Falconers.
We continue to offer free space for local artists to display and sell their work. If your art speaks to life, love, loss, or remembrance, we would love to hear from you. Contact me, Erich, through our website or message us on social media.
At Falconers, we hold space for stories, for creativity, and for the beauty that remains.
Because every piece of art, like every life, leaves something meaningful behind.