Rooted in Beara
The Beara peninsula is situated in the far reaches of the South West of Ireland, it is a rugged and wild landscape shaped by the powerful Atlantic ocean. It is one of the exquisite gems on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Locals (muintir duchás) are said to have salt water running through their veins. It is loved by artists, makers, nature lovers and seekers, place and nature are intrinsically intertwined.
I grew up on a small farm in the rugged Beara Peninsula West Cork surrounded by sea, cliffs, patchwork fields and old stone walls. It is true to say, growing up, I didn’t recognise its extraordinary beauty. Much later, I understood its imprint on my heart and soul. It lives in my veins and inspires my craft.
I am presently living closer to Cork City, however the call of Beara is never far away, I’m fortunate to be able to visit and recalibrate in the nest of the landscape.
My rural upbringing on the Beara Peninsula informed my innate understanding of nature’s gifts. Storms left beautiful drift wood in their wake and shaped the people and the landscape. Today, I use storm-felled wood when possible.
Native Irish timbers; oak, ash, elm, yew as well as spalted beech and sycamore are my trusted allies to create heirloom furniture, I am always guided by the grain and and the beguiling features of the wood itself.
Finding my Place
Wood has always been my medium, I was a woodwork teacher for many years and a personal and professional crisis changed my life dramatically.
When I was emerging from the chaos of that time, I returned to College to learn furniture making, following my heart and finding my passion has been part of my healing.
I have three sons and if it is of interest to them I would love in the future to pass on some of the skills to them, regardless of that it gives me joy to know they will always own some of my furniture. My work is part of my legacy to them and my future grandchildren.
Transforming wood to carefully designed furniture and homeware allowing the natural beauty of the timber to shine through gives me a great sense of satisfaction and fulfilment.
My hope and dream is that my furniture is part of your legacy for your loved ones, an heirloom piece stretching backwards and forwards in time.
