A major theme of MacCarthy's was to explore the physicality of the female figure, something which was carried through his career, whether in the subject's private moments bathing or energetically modeling on the catwalk.

MacCarthy's appreciation of Cellini, Rodin, Remington and Stubbs can be seen in his early-period bronze sculpture with the work taking a robust and sensitive modelling manner, which was also underscored by the medium of clay.

In later years MacCarthy switched to modelling in wax which allowed him a quicker and freer approach and he evolved a more mannerist style with the forms exaggerated often resulting in compositions that were unnaturally elegant.

While primarily working in clay, and wax, MacCarthy also examined his core themes through the different mediums of limestone, copper and wood, with the latter two materials being used for more playful sculptural pieces.

While surrounding mountains and coastline of West Cork take prominence in MacCarthy's painting, the female figure also is a key subject either set within a location of landscape or interior.