For the last two decades Monaghan has painted in his own time, exploring both calligraphic and optical art techniques. In 1999 he gave up design work to concentrate full-time on painting and sculpture. Since then he has exhibited his work in many cities around the world including London, New York, Miami, Singapore, Brussels and Hong Kong. Monaghan’s work has also been chosen for display at the RHA annual exhibition from 2004- 2014.

His work is an exploration of the relationship between two and three dimensions and the optical effects achieved through colour, shape and illusion.

“My work is the result of a disciplined research into the experience of looking- the experience of pure visual sensation and aesthetic pleasure. Simple forms and colours are used in repetition to engage the viewer. It is a dialogue about light, colour, movement and illusion; exploring the relationships and contrasts between painted flat surfaces, protruding spheres, cubes or geometric shapes. The work aims to evoke a response from the viewer.”

“The movement involved in viewing the work engages the viewer and this participation links the viewer to the painter and completes the visual experience. While I continue to draw inspiration from optical art and mid-twentieth century artists such as Joseph Albers, Victor Vaseraly and Bridget Reilly, my strongest influences are drawn from personal explorations inspired by colour, rhythm and compositional movements.”