May Power was born in Dublin on 11 September 1903. Her parents were the sculptor Albert Power, and Agnes (née Kelly). She had 6 brothers and 3 sisters.[1] Her younger brother, James, also went on to become a renowned sculptor.[2] The family moved to 18 Geraldine Street, Phibsborough in early 1912, where Power’s father established his stone carving business. Along with James, Power was taught the basics of modelling and carving by their father, and later both attended the Dublin Metropolitan School of Art (DMSA).[3] While attending the DMSA, Power modelled for fellow artist Patrick Tuohy, sitting for him more than any other model.[4] Power modelled for her father for his bronze statuette of Queen Tailte.[5]
Queen Tailte Statue for the Tailteann Games in Ireland.