Robert Shaw is native of Malahide, a coastal village north of Dublin city. Shaw's studio was for nine years situated high on the most easterly point of Howth head. From here he was inspired by the land and seascapes that stretch as far as the mountains of Mourne in the north, to the coast of Wales in the east. His work is also strongly influenced by the rich historical and spiritual heritage of the north Leinster coastline. Today he paints at his studio in Donabate and on the nearby beaches and shores.