Ester Kiely

Cork Textiles Network Exhibition at Bishopstown Library, Cork

2012-02-06T13:04:00.000-08:00

Lots of new stock to see at Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery for 2012

2012-01-26T14:03:00.000-08:00

A fresh new window for January!

Drop in and see what's new in store.

And check out the workshop schedule and book your place on an enjoyable craft workshop.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-10T15:06:00.000-08:00

Le Grá has re-opened for 2012!

And very soon we will have a full range of classes on offer again including:

patchwork, felt-making, print-making, jewellery-making, photography, clay-moulding, clay slab-building, crafty creatures, creative journalling, crochet and lots more.

Join us for the free 'Crafty Tuesday Morning' sessions from 10.30-12.30 (10 places available so first come, first served).

Or book your place on the patchwork for beginners workshop every Tuesday evening 18.30-20.30 or Friday mornings 10.30-12.30 (tel 087 6193870).

Please call in and see the range of product by Irish craft-makers, artists and designers....there's new stock arriving all the time!

10 inch x 10 inch Art Sale at Bar no. 8, Dock Road, Galway on 7th November 6.30 to 10.00pm

2011-11-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

This promises to be a great opportunity to buy some original artwork by established and emerging artists for a very affordable €45! All proceeds will go to further developments at Groundworks Studios to ensure it remains a vibrant centre for excellence in textiles, ceramics and visual art.

Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery opens at Claregalway Shopping Centre, Co. Galway

2011-10-15T04:14:00.000-07:00

Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery opened its doors on Monday 10th October.

Everyone through the door was part of the celebrations with some sparkling juice and chocolates to lend a party atmosphere!

All the wonderful work of Galway-based and Irish craftmakers, artists and designers was on display in this new, bright and airy space.

Customers were suitably impressed with the talent and creativity of all those who make beautiful things 'le grá' (with love) right here at home.

And so it is with a happy heart that I can say Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery has had a lovely first week!

Thank you to all those who helped in any way to make this happen and thank you to all those who visited in the first week. And I look forward to welcoming those who have yet to visit Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery, Claregalway Shopping Centre (behind Hughes' Supervalu), Co. Galway.

le grá mór!

Ester

Random Shuffle 2: An exhibition of textiles and ceramics

2011-10-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

Photo: Kim O'Sullivan

Random Shuffle 2, an exhibition of textiles and ceramics will take place at the Café Foyer, GMIT Main Campus, Dublin Road Galway from 10th October to 30th October.

The exhibition features the work of Graduates of GMIT Art and Design as well as the works of the members of Groundworks Studios in celebration of Year of Craft and will be officially opened on 14th October by Bridgette Brew at 4pm.

Cork Textiles Network presents "Colour of Sound"

2011-10-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

Cork Textiles Network presents "Colour of Sound" an exhibition of textiles at the Cork School of Music, Union Quay, Cork from Thursday 24th November to Thursday 20th December, 2011.

Schedule of Workshops and Events at Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery

2011-10-02T14:43:00.000-07:00

All sessions are from 10.30 to 12.30 unless otherwise specified.
All classes are 16 Euro (except those marked FREE).
To book your place at a class email esterkiely@gmail.com or phone 087 6193870).

Mon 10th Oct to be advised

Tues 11th Oct FREE: 'All stitched up' If you like to knit, crochet, patchwork, embroider, cross-stitch, etc... bring along your current hand-project, meet some new friends and share ideas at this open-day event. We have space for 10 people, so first come, first served!

Wed 12th Oct to be advised

Thur 13th Oct FREE: Local craft group will use classroom space and demonstrate their craft to the public (to book your group email esterkiely@gmail.com)

Fri 14th Oct Patchwork for beginners with Ester Kiely. Simple hand-sewing techniques. Today we will learn 'piecing over papers' with hexagons to make a 'Grandmother's Flower Garden' pattern.

Mon 17th Oct to be advised

Tue 18th Oct FREE: 'All stitched up' If you like to knit, crochet, patchwork, embroider, cross-stitch, etc... bring along your current hand-project, meet some new friends and share ideas at this open-day event. We have space for 10 people, so first come, first served!

Wed 19th Oct Creative Journals with Ester Kiely. Do you long to be creative but don't know where to start? Have you often wondered how an artist develops an idea for a piece of work. This workshop is suitable for all ages and no previous artistic experience is necessary. You will receive a blank journal and lots of tips and tricks to kick-start your creativity!

Thur 20th Oct FREE: Local craft group will use classroom space and demonstrate their craft to the public (to book your group email esterkiely@gmail.com)

Fri 21st Oct Patchwork for beginners with Ester Kiely. Simple hand-sewing techniques. Today we will learn hand-applique to make a simple flower pattern.

Mon 24th Oct to be advised

Tue 25th Oct FREE: 'All stitched up' If you like to knit, crochet, patchwork, embroider, cross-stitch, etc... bring along your current hand-project, meet some new friends and share ideas at this open-day event. We have space for 10 people, so first come, first served!

Wed 26th Oct to be advised

Thur 27th Oct Local craft group will use classroom space and demonstrate their craft to the public (to book your group email esterkiely@gmail.com)

Fri 28th Oct Patchwork for beginners with Ester Kiely. Simple hand-sewing techniques. Today we will learn half-square triangles using templates to make a star pattern.

Mon 31st Oct to be advised

Tue 1st Nov FREE: 'All stitched up' If you like to knit, crochet, patchwork, embroider, cross-stitch, etc... bring along your current hand-project, meet some new friends and share ideas at this open-day event. We have space for 10 people, so first come, first served!

Wed 2nd Nov to be advised

Thur 3rd Nov Local craft group will use classroom space and demonstrate their craft to the public (to book your group email esterkiely@gmail.com)

Fri 4th Nov Patchwork for beginners with Ester Kiely. Simple hand-sewing techniques. Today we will learn piecing over papers with diamonds to form a 'tumbling block' pattern.

Mon 7th Nov to be advised

Tue 8th Nov FREE: 'All stitched up' If you like to knit, crochet, patchwork, embroider, cross-stitch, etc... bring along your current hand-project, meet some new friends and share ideas at this open-day event. We have space for 10 people, so first come, first served!

Wed 9th Nov to be advised

Thur 10th Nov Local craft group will use classroom space and demonstrate their craft to the public (to book your group email esterkiely@gmail.com)

Fri 11th Nov Patchwork for beginners with Ester Kiely. Simple hand-sewing techniques. Today we will learn curved piecing.

Following on from the success of Galway Craft Month Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery will publish additional dates on 13th November.

Beginner's Patchwork Classes Monday Nights 18.30-21.00

2011-09-26T02:35:00.000-07:00

Half-square triangles can be used to make star-shaped blocks. This first class on Monday 26th September, focuses on a quick technique suitable for hand or machine stitching. It is very suitable for beginners.
This is the first 2.5hr class in a series of 5. You can do only one class (25Euro) or sign up for all 5 classes (110Euro) - it's up to you. Each class stands on it's own as one technique....but if you put them all together and you've got the makings of a sampler quilt - your very own family heirloom!
The class takes place at Groundworks Studios, Lyrr Building 3, Mervue Business Park, Galway. Phone 087 6193870 for more information.

Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery opens 10th October 2011

2011-09-25T03:01:00.000-07:00

opening on 10th October, 2011 in Claregalway Shopping Centre, Co. Galway will showcase the unique talents of Galway craft-makers, artists and designers. Ceramics, jewellery, textiles, prints, paintings and many other original artworks will be available for sale. Many of the artists will be available to teach workshops from 10th October to 10th November for Galway Craft Month. A full schedule will be published from 1st October to allow you to book your place and learn a new skill! Click here to view Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery blog www.legracraftstudioandgallery.blogspot.com.

Le Grá Craft Studio and Gallery included in programme of events for Galway Craft Month

2011-09-22T11:42:00.000-07:00

"Go Create" Family day of arts at Campbell's Tavern, Cloughanover, Headford, Co. Galway

2011-09-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Solstice Arts Group will host another "Go Create" event at Campbell's Tavern, Cloughanover, Headford, Co. Galway on Sunday 25th September starting at 1pm. Lots of workshops, demonstrations, music for all the family.

‘Le Grá’ Craft Studio and Gallery in Galway seeks submissions

2011-09-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

‘Le Grá’ Craft Studio and Gallery opening in Co. Galway on 10th October, in time for Galway Craft Month, seeks submissions from Galway and Irish Craftmakers, Designers and Artists across all disciplines (painting, print-making, glass, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, woodwork, sculpture, etc) in the following categories:
- products for retail on a sale or return basis (primarily in retail pricepoints of under 25Euro, under 50Euro and under 100Euro)
- workshop proposals suitable for children and adults

For more information and application details email esterkiely@gmail.com

A Practical Guide to Setting Up Studio Space

2011-09-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

I'm currently doing a little research into setting up studio space and found this VAI article very useful.

A Practical Guide to Setting Up Studio Space

Culture Night in Galway: Open night and workshops at Groundworks Studios

2011-09-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Friday 23rd September is Galway Culture Night and Groundworks Studios open their doors to invite you in and see the artists at work and perhaps participate in a workshop as well.

For more details see

http://www.craftinireland.com/events/details/what-are-you-made-of-craft-your-county-colours-with-groundworks-studios/

Opening of Groundworks Studios Exhibition at Niland Gallery, Merchant's Road, Galway

2011-07-31T13:05:00.000-07:00

Title: CUT FROM THE SAME CLOTH

Needlework, home-making, making do and mending tend to be referred to as ‘women’s work’……
Skills learned in the home are often under-appreciated when compared to those learned at school, in university or in the workplace.
This installation celebrates skills learned from the generations of women in my family who shared their knowledge of lace-making, dress-making, tailoring, knitting, crochet and more.

While the items included in this display are not for sale, the skills used to make them can be learned at Groundworks Studios workshops.

The exhibition is open from 10.30 to 18.00 every day until Saturday 6th July, 2011.

See www.groundworksstudios.com for more photos from the exhibition.

Groundworks Studios Exhibition at the Niland Gallery, Galway

2011-07-29T11:29:00.001-07:00

Groundworks Studio members are holding an exhibition at the Niland Gallery, Merchants Road, Galway. The exhibition will include fine art, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery and textiles. The opening is at 19.00 on Saturday 30th July and you are all invited! For more information on Groundworks Studios see www.groundworksstudios.com.

August: Cork Craft Month

2011-07-28T02:19:00.000-07:00

Lots of stuff going on in Cork in August for Cork Craft Month....so check it all out!

Wonderland: Summer camp of arts and crafts for children at Groundworks Studios

2011-07-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

Join Groundworks Studios for their specialist childrens’ arts and crafts camp as they follow the footsteps of Alice down the rabbit hole into Wonderland! Themed on Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland activities will include creative journalling, ceramics, textiles, painting, t-shirt printing, jewellery, papercraft and more! Complete with Mad Hatters Tea Party finale on Friday evening!

All workshops are led by practising crafts people in a safe, child friendly environment. The studio environment provides an opportunity for children to engage with professional working artists and to create under their guidance.

Maximum 12 participants per camp, therefore booking is essential. For booking please contact Joanna on 086 8774710. Suitable for children aged 7 – 12 years.

Week 1: 1st – 5th August 2011
Week 2: 8th – 12th August 2011
Time: 10am – 2pm
Price: €100 per child, family discount available.

The Brooklyn Library Sketchbook Project

2011-07-19T12:34:00.000-07:00

I heard about this project last year and really liked the sound of it so I thought I'd sign up this year and get involved. To get involved you just need to sign up, pick a theme, pay the basic admin fee (about $25) and you will receive a blank sketchbook in the post. Fill your sketchbook and return it by the deadline for inclusion in the touring exhibition.

For more information check out.... http://www.arthousecoop.com/projects/sketchbookproject

Some more highlights from "Branching Out" at the Botanic Gardens

2011-07-19T03:04:00.000-07:00

"Roses for Rosemary" by Christine McComish. I really liked the mixture of pieced patchwork and applique on this quilt. And the flowers seemed to have a 3d quality to them.

"Family Album" by Mary Ann Fitzpatrick-Browne. This traditional woollen quilt had lovely bainin wools, tweeds, felted sweaters and the backing was a recycled family blanket. I took photos of the details: cats, dogs, sewing machine, thread & scissors and this quirky chicken.

"Poppy Love" by Lynn Naughton. Although I had seen Lynn's quilt at our own exhibition I somehow missed the details! Lynn painted the poppies using a technique learned from the Kemshall's 'Design Matters TV'. But I enjoyed looking at all the little details I missed the first time: little stamped flowers on the trellis design and all the feathered quilting stitches.

"Birchfield" by Elaine Doyle. This subltle quilt was really beautiful. Neutral coloured silks with machine and hand embroidery and lovely machine quilting.

"Parachutes" by Ann Fleeton. I've been a fan of Ann's work since I first met her at an Eastern Branch IPS meeting and I've been lucky enough to participate in a number of her classes. Here she has pieced together cotton organdie, silk organza and silk paper. I love the delicacy of her hand-painted fabrics and machine-stitched drawing.

What makes a successful quilt?

2011-07-14T11:35:00.001-07:00

.....when someone small and very cute decides to snuggle up on it! This is Zoey, a visitor, who obviously feels very much at home here!

Branching Out: National IPS exhibition at the Botanic Gardens

2011-07-12T15:41:00.001-07:00

The National Exhibition of the Irish Patchwork Society is currently running in the Botanic Gardens, Dublin until 2nd August, 2011. Together with other members of the Western Branch I made a trip by bus to see it at the weekend. The exhibition is well worth a visit if you get the chance, the Botanic Gardens are beautiful and the restaurant has lovely teatime treats or lunch.

The following photos are just some of the highlights that particularly caught my eye (I will credit each artist name below soon but I just don't have the details to hand as I upload these photos). Trust me there's loads more to see, with a huge variety of skill levels, techniques, colours and fabric choices in traditional and contemporary styles....so there's something to appeal to everyone's taste. The IPS members at the information desk are helpful, there's a catalog on sale for 5 Euro and there's a sticky felt design-board for children to play at designing their own patchwork patterns.

"Breathe In, Breathe Out, Interior, Exterior Spaces"by Meg Kenny. I liked the mix of techniques in this piece (Photo printing and applique).

"Growth Patterns" by Ailbhe O'Callaghan I loved the colour choices in this quilt and also the precision of the composition.

"Branching Out/New Beginnings" by Brenda Hogan. I almost missed seeing this piece as it was hung on the side of a pillar. My photo doesn't really do justice to the autumn colours of the batik fabrics used.

"Poppies and Daisies" by Moira Byrne. I loved the colour-wash pieced background and the applique on top in this quilt.

"The Chameleon" by Joke Bursma. The colours and the detailed stitching were worthy of close inspection. But stand back and the piece has immediate visual impact also. This piece was chosen for the cover of the catalogue.

Groundworks Studios Summer Camp 2011

2011-07-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

Groundworks Studios announce Summer Camp 2011

Camp Details
Week 1: 1st – 5th August 2011
Week 2: 8th – 12th August 2011
Time: 10am – 2pm
Age: 7 – 12 Years
Cost: €100 per child (inclusive of materials) - 10% sibling discount
Location: Summer camps will take place at Groundworks Studios, Lyrr Building 3, Mervue Business Park, Galway

Description
Join Groundworks Studios for their specialist childrens’ arts and crafts camp as they follow the footsteps of Alice down the rabbit hole into Wonderland! Themed on Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland activities will include creative journalling, ceramics, textiles, painting, t-shirt printing, jewellery, papercraft and more! All workshops are led by professional arts and crafts practioners in a safe, child friendly environment. The studio environment provides the perfect opportunity for children to engage with working artists and to create under their guidance.

The week will end with a Mad Hatters Tea Party finale (Friday), showcasing the childrens work! Face painting, tea party, fun and games can be expected! Children wil be fully supervised at all times.

Maximum 12 participants per camp, therefore booking is essential. For booking please contact Joanna on 086 8774710. Suitable for children aged 7 – 12 years.

Children should bring a healthy packed lunch daily.
Creative mess is encouraged therefore children are advised to wear suitable clothing!

For more information see www.groundworksstudios.com

"Modern Languages" at the Galway City Museum

2011-07-04T13:13:00.001-07:00

I received an invitation through the Cork Textiles Network and textile artist, Deirdre Nelson (who gave a talk at their conference this year) to this exhibition opening on 12th July. I've been asked to pass it on......so all you craft enthusiasts out there you are invited too!

You are invited to the opening of Modern Languages, a co-production between Galway Arts Festival and the National Craft Gallery, Ireland. Curated by Katy West, Modern Languages (re-interpreting the Irish vernacular) presents the work of Nao Matsunaga, Laura Mays, Deirdre Nelson, Ciara Phillips & Barbara Ridland. Coming from Ireland, Scotland, Canada and Japan, these artists offer new interpretations of traditional Irish craft.
The exhibition explores the relationships between indigenous Irish craft and contemporary international creative practice. It focuses on the intentional adoption and corruption of craft practices within the artist’s work; each adapts elements of the Irish vernacular to convey meanings that are no longer dictated by historic provenance but by their own personal interests and motives.
Modern Languages will be at the National Craft Gallery, Kilkenny from the 22nd of October - 11th of January 2012

Branching Out: National Exhibition of the Irish Patchwork Society at the Botanic Gardens

2011-07-04T05:36:00.001-07:00

I was delighted an image of my work (top right) was chosen along with 7 other pieces (4 from Galway in total!) for the invitation to 'Branching Out' the National Exhibition at the Botanic Gardens, Dublin. The exhibition runs until 2nd August and the official opening is at 11.30am on Tuesday 5th July. The Western Branch will travel to the exhibition by bus on Saturday 9th July (members can contact Joan Colleran for details or see http://www.westernips.blogspot.com/). More information about the exhibition celebrating 30 years of the society can be seen at

http://irishpatchwork.blogspot.com/ and also on the Crafts Council's Year of Craft website
http://www.craftinireland.com.

Galway Craft on display at the Galway County Hall

2011-07-04T05:27:00.000-07:00

Galway City and County Councils wish to promote Galway craft as part of the Year of Craft Celebrations in 2011. My work is included in a display along with 7 other craftspeople at the Galway County Hall, Prospect Hill, Galway from 4th July to 1st August. The display includes woodwork, ceramics, jewellery, slate and textiles. I hope to include some photographs here soon, but if you're passing the County Hall, do drop in!

"Outside the Box" a showcase of Irish Fine Art Craftsmanship

2011-06-08T15:38:00.000-07:00

The work of fellow Cork Textiles Network member Jenny Monks will feature in "Outside the Box" a showcase of Irish Fine Art Craftsmanship at the Twenty Twenty Gallery, Cork from 9th to 20th June.

Groundworks Studios display work at the Galway Discover Ireland Centre

2011-06-01T05:29:00.000-07:00

A selection of textiles, ceramics, paintings, prints, jewellery and more by members of Groundworks Studios is currently on display at the Galway Discover Ireland Centre, Forster Street, Galway until Saturday 4th June, 2011. For more information about the group, upcoming events, workshops and exhibitions see www.groundworksstudios.com.

"CrafTiNg" an exhibition of textiles by the Cork Textiles Network

2011-06-01T05:22:00.000-07:00

Some of my work will feature at the Cork Textiles exhibition 'CrafTiNg' which opens on Thursday 2nd June in St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, Cork. The exhibition will run until Thursday 16th June. For more information see www.corktextiles.com.

Places available at 2hr Beginner's Patchwork Class on Friday 20th May

2011-05-09T03:07:00.000-07:00

This 2 hr class is suitable for beginners and will take place on Friday 20th May from 10am-12pm.

‘Half-square triangles’ can be hand or machine-pieced. This simple technique creates two squares at a time. Combine these with a light background fabric as shown above and you will soon have a 12 ½ inch block. You can use this block to make a simple cushion cover or continue to make enough to create a cot, lap or bed quilt like the one shown in the photo above.

Bring the following supplies, if you have them:
 100% cotton fabrics (Hickey’s, Pippa Blue, Rags for Linda are suppliers in Galway see links to these websites in the right-hand column of this website)
 ‘sharps’ sewing needles
 neutral (cream or light grey) cotton thread
 sharp fabric scissors.

But don’t worry if you don’t have any of the above I will have basic equipment to share, scraps you can use free of charge and ‘fat-quarters’ of fabric you can purchase for 2-3Euro each.

Class notes will be provided.

If you'd like to join this friendly workshop (coffee and biscuits provided!) contact me asap at esterkiely@gmail.com there are only 2 places still available!

Solstice Arts: Art for Everyone at Campbell's Tavern Wednesday 11th May

2011-05-08T03:24:00.000-07:00

The Solstice Arts group will hold another 'Arts for Everyone' event at Campbell's Tavern, Cloughanover, Headford on Wednesday 11th May at 8pm. All are welcome to attend and meet local writers, visual artists, craftspeople and musicians in a relaxed, friendly environment. Last month's event was a great success and Solstice Arts intend to hold regular 'Arts for Everyone' events throughout the year.

Workshop places available: Photo printing on Fabric

2011-05-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

The last few places are still available for a workshop on using your inkjet printer to print on fabric.

I will show a number of options for printing digital photos (or scanned images, drawings, etc) onto fabric using:

commercially available pre-prepared A4 cotton

your own fine cotton or sheer fabrics cut to A4 and stabilised with paper

tshirt transfer sheets

The workshop takes place on Wednesday 18th May at my studio. For full details please email me at esterkiely@gmail.com.

(For more photos from a previous workshop on this process see

www.esterkiely.blogspot.com/2010/11/printing-photos-onto-fabric-workshop-on.html

Workshop for children: I'm an artist and this is my ideas book!

2011-04-28T12:25:00.000-07:00

Every one of us is creative. We each have a unique view of the world around us. Our memories, thoughts, feelings and reactions provide us with lots of inspiration for making artwork.

An artist is always looking, observing and keeping notes. This information allows the artist to create a personal response to the world around them.

In this workshop each participant will start with a blank notebook.

With a few simple techniques the notebook will be personalised with colour, mark-making, collage and embellishments.

With a few simple tricks we will learn how to deal with questions like…
 Where/how will I start?
 What if I make a mistake?
 What if I don’t like what I do on my page?
 What if I don’t think it is good?

In the class the focus is on ‘kick-starting’ creativity, having fun and taking away the fear of having to produce something perfect. The journal is a place to play and explore, make mistakes and just enjoy the process. The outcome expected is not a finished, perfect journal, but an experience of what it is like to follow your own creative process with the freedom to express yourself, without explanation or justification.

Workshop Duration
2.5hr ‘taster’ workshop

Max 12 per class.

Materials Provided

 Blank Notebook (to keep)
 Zip-lock bag (to keep little scraps of collage material gathered in the class to take home and continue working with)
 Other materials will be provided for use at the workshop (paint, glue, pencils, scissors, papers, collage material, memorabilia, stamping equipment, common household materials that can be repurposed, etc). Materials used are deliberately ‘cheap and cheerful’ and easily obtainable from ‘2Euro Shops’, Tescos and other value stores.
 Participants are also welcome to bring along any art supplies or collage materials they would like to use themselves.

Cost per child 15Euro

Location: Groundworks Studios, Mervue Business Park, Galway on Friday 29th April, 2011.

Email: esterkiely@gmail.com for information about future workshops.

"Now and Then" an exhibition by Cork Textiles Network

2011-04-08T01:09:00.001-07:00

I am delighted that a piece of my work "Stone walls, Tall grasses and a Blue moon" was selected to feature in this exhibition (and in the centre, bottom row of the invitation) which opens at 6pm on Thursday 21st April, 2011 at Leahy & Associates Architects Ltd., 4 Camden Quay, Cork. The exhibition runs until 2nd May 2011. For more information see www.corktextiles.com.

"Branching Out" an exhibition by the Western Branch of Irish Patchwork Society at the Galway City Museum

2011-04-07T10:53:00.001-07:00

PLEASE NOTE THIS EXHIBITION HAS CLOSED EARLY DUE TO RENOVATIONS AT THE GALWAY CITY MUSUEM. APOLOGIES TO ANYONE WHO MISSED THE EXHIBITION DUE TO THE SHORT NOTICE OF THE CLOSURE

"Branching Out" an exhibition of quilts by the Western Branch of the Irish Patchwork Society will open at 3pm on Saturday April 16th at the Galway City Museum, all are welcome! It promises to be a great exhibition, so don't miss it!

On 7th April, 2011 the Western Branch of the Irish Patchwork Society presented the museum with this beautiful quilt "Western Reflections" showing some scenes of life in the West of Ireland. The quilt will remain part of the Museum's permanent collection.

For more information about the Western Branch of the IPS see http://www.westernips.blogspot.com/

"The Narrative Line" An exhibition by Alice Kettle and Bernie Leahy

2011-03-22T02:18:00.000-07:00

Before travelling home from Downpatrick on 12th March I took a detour to visit the Island Arts Centre in Lisburn for the last day of an exhibition of textiles by Alice Kettle and Bernie Leahy which is a touring exhibition organised by the Crafts Council of Ireland.

I've seen work by both artists before but was interested to see them both together as they are very different in style and technique although both rely heavily on stitch.

I am a fan of Bernie Leahy's work and marvel at her stitched drawing skills! The image above was taken from Google images and it is quite small so it's hard to see the detail. The piece itself was approx 20 x 30inches if I remember correctly. There were larger stitched drawings, bronze sculptures with stitched components, victorian lockets with stitched drawings and some plaster-dipped children's dresses with stitched drawings. I liked the variety of work and the mix of materials used. I also like the contemporary/conceptual element of her work. If you'd like to see more check out her website at http://www.efiberart.com/

Alice Kettle uses lots more colour and machine-stitching in her work, which is generally larger scaled. I wonder how she manages to manipulate these large canvas-based pieces on her sewing machine? The finished pieces undulate with the heavy stitching, a quality I think adds texture, depth and movement. Her work reminds me of Chagall's paintings, which I saw in Nice, France when I was a student in the late '80's. Alice Kettle also showed paper collages and ceramics in the exhibition. For more of her work see http://www.alicekettle.com/

The Island Arts Centre is one to be proud of where craft, fine art and the community live together happily! It is a large centre with lots of rooms for workshops. On the day I visited 3 or 4 of them were occupied with groups of all ages enjoying a variety of workshops. Naomi Whan teaches a number of textile workshops here (for info on her work see http://craftni.org/directory/maker/naomi-whan)

The centre has at least one (maybe more) artist studios. One of those is currently occupied by artist-in-residence, Andrea McCullough - a ceramic artist. I liked her quirky 'love-potion' bottle and brought one home to see if it works!

The centre also seems to have a vibrant community arts scheme with the resultant work by community groups also on display.

The centre supports local artists through an award/purchase scheme and the collection is displayed throughout. I was delighted to see that textiles feature prominently.

The Textile Art Forum residential week at Ballyduggan, Co. Down.

2011-03-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

This was my second year participating in a week's residential with The Textile Art Forum in Ballyduggan, Co. Down (www.thetextileartforum.blogspot.com).
Four of us attended this year to explore the theme "Stitching the Legend".
I am initially creating some pieces with tree silhouettes against various sky backdrops, taking inspiration from the legend of "Eithne the fairy bride" which is associated with the hill of Knockma in Belclare Co. Galway near where I live.
The work each of us will produce on this theme which we have started during our residential week will be exhibited firstly in Ballyjamesduff Museum in June 2011 and will then tour to other venues through to 2012.
This residential week though relaxing is also very productive for me and I have come home with an initial signature piece completed and 3 others in various stages of progress (see above) and lots of ideas for further work....so I'm fired up and hoping to keep up the momentum!

"Function and Form" Conference by Cork Textiles Network

2011-03-16T06:27:00.000-07:00

This year I got a chance to attend the Cork Textiles Network conference in Cork for the first time. I think this event will need to be a regular date for my calendar. I could only attend one day of this 2-day event this year but it was definitely worth the trip!

In the morning there were 3 artist talks:

Deirdre Nelson is currently artist in residence at the Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh, Co. Cork. Read all about her work at http://dstitched.blogspot.com/ and she is looking for textile artists to participate in some of her activities there during March.

Diana Harrison's work has been widely exhibited (see photo from CTN conference brochure above) and you can read some more about her at http://www.clothandculturenow.com/Diana_Harrison.html

Aileen Johnston received the Award of Excellence at the RDS Crafts Competition a few years ago for her stunning 'Book of Hours' which contains her beautiful machine-embroidered illustrations.

In the afternoon I attended a workshop 'sketchbooking for textile artists' with Jenny Monks, a tutor at Colaiste Stiofan Naofa. The workshop was very enjoyable and helped me explore some new directions for a new series of work I am planning related the folklore of Knockma, Co. Galway.

The four pieces above are part of a series called "Aunty's sewing Box" which were included in the "Seamless" exhibition at Colaiste Stiofan Naofa which continues until the 13th April.

II Hemming lace and Harris tweed IV Twinsets and darning wool
I Silk stockings and tea in Ballincollig III Hooks, eyes and pearly buttons

Tread Softly Exhibition by Crafts Council of Ireland at Cork Public Museum

2011-03-16T06:14:00.000-07:00

I attended the opening of 'Tread Softly' an exhibition of textiles by members of the Crafts Council of Ireland at the Cork Public Museum on Friday 4th March.

The exhibition continues until 30th April, so if you get a chance to travel to Cork it's definitely worth a visit.

"Make it New" An exhibition by the Textile Art Forum until

2011-02-22T09:27:00.000-08:00

A photograph from "Make it New" an exhibition by the Textile Art Forum which continues until 25th February at

Ards Arts Centre,
Newtownards Town Hall,
Conway Square,
Newtownards,
Co Down, BT23 4DB

Opening times: 10.00 – 16.30 Mon - Thurs, 10.00 – 16.00 Fri - Sat

For more information see www.textileartforum.blogspot.com

"Seamless" off the body, on the wall: Textile exhibition at Colaiste Stiofain Naofa, Cork

2011-02-22T01:04:00.000-08:00

My aunt was influential in teaching me how to sew when I was about 6 years old. I recently inherited her sewing box, filled with her threads and sewing notions for mending, altering and embellishing clothing. Some aunties may seem/seam so straight! But my aunty lived an interesting and full life in Ireland, UK and the USA. She seemed quite exotic to a very impressed 6-year old! These nostalgic treasures inspired a series of 4 8x8inch block pieces. (photos of the 4 pieces to follow shortly!)

Crafted Creatures at the Ark, Temple Bar, Dublin

2011-02-18T03:24:00.000-08:00

Fellow Cork Textiles Network colleague, Ann Kiely's work will feature in "Crafted Creatures" event at the Ark, Temple Bar, Dublin from 15th February to 1st April, 2011. For more information on this event see www.ark.ie.

'Form and Function' in Textiles, A Conference by Cork Textiles Network

2011-02-17T13:52:00.000-08:00

A two-day conference of textiles from Britain and Ireland's leading contemporary textile artists takes place at Colaiste Stiofan Naofa, Tramore Road, Cork on 5th and 6th March, 2011. For a full listing of events and workshops see http://www.corktextiles.com/.

"Make it New" an exhibition by the Textile Art Forum in Co. Down

2011-01-31T08:46:00.000-08:00

The Textile Art Forum

presents

Make it New

an exhibition of textiles at

Ards Arts Centre,

Newtownards Town Hall,

Conway Square,

Newtownards,

Co Down, BT23 4DB

Official opening: Thursday, 3rd February, 2011: 19.00-21.00

Exhibition runs from 2nd - 25th February 2011

Opening times: 10.00 – 16.30 Mon - Thurs, 10.00 – 16.00 Fri - Sat

http://textileartforum.blogspot.com

Hand applique class at Pippa Blue, Galway

2011-01-23T04:29:00.001-08:00

This 2 ½ hr class is suitable for beginners.

Hand appliqué is a technique used in many quilts to create floral and other patterns. We will provide basic sewing equipment for you to share to help you get started. We will applique a pattern to a background square to form a 12 ½ in block, which you can put with others to make a sampler quilt like the one above.

You can bring the following supplies, if you have them:

 100% cotton fabrics (Pippa Blue has a selection of ‘fat quarters’ for sale)

 sewing needle

 neutral (cream or light grey) cotton thread

 sharp fabric scissors.

Notes will be provided.

Why not join us for a Sunday afternoon class (This class will be re-schduled for a later date, perhaps in February see below for details of how to find out more) and learn some of the techniques to help you make your own family heirloom quilt? For more information

 Call into the shop Pippa Blue, Middle St. Galway.

 Phone 091 566972

 Book online at www.pippablue.com (sewing classes)

Creative Textiles Workshop at Galway Technical Institute

2011-01-14T05:46:00.000-08:00

I was delighted to be invited to work with students at the Galway Technical Institute on Friday 14th January, to demonstrate a variety of free-machine embroidery and quilting techniques.

Free-machine embroidery into soluble fabric. Circles of red stitches were formed into a lacy heart shape. Another student sample was curled into a cone shape. By leaving some of the 'glue' in the finished sample and forming it into a 3D shape while wet, it dries hard and holds its shape providing interesting design opportunities.

Here a student trapped some snippets of sheer fabrics between 2 layers of soluble film in an embroidery hoop and stitched over them in circular patterns.

A student traps snippets of various fabrics under sheer fabric. A layer of pelmet (heavy weight) vilene is used as a background. Free-machine embroidery holds the layers together. The finished sample can be cut and shaped into collars, cuffs, bags, etc. These can be further embellished with decorative stitching, beading etc.

For more information on the Advanced Certificate in Fashion Design see http://www.gti.ie/

Launch of new Craft Fair at Galway City Museum

2010-12-13T04:34:00.001-08:00

Sinead and I enjoy a glass of festive cheer at the Galway City Museum's new Craft Fair, which was officially launched on Saturday 11th December by Galway City Arts Officer, James Harrold.

Some of my embroidered journals are for sale at the Museum.

One of my 'Stone walls, tall grasses and moon' series of silk wall-hangings.

Another wall-hanging beside Joanna McGlynn's wonderful bird series.

Some more of my embroidered journals included in the mix of products on offer. Lisa Ryder's digitally printed cushions are also in this photo.

Thanks to Mairead Cunningham for the great photos of the event.

Groundworks Studios launch new craft space at Galway City Museum on Saturday 11th December

2010-12-07T02:58:00.001-08:00

Embroidered wool hot water bottles by Caroline Moran

Knitted wool hats and gloves by BreegeWalsh.

Digitally printed cushions and scarves by Lisa Ryder.

Embroidered birds by Joanna McGlynn.

Embroidered and printed wall-art by Ester Kiely.

These are just some of the products now on sale at the new craft space at Galway City Museum, Spanish Arch, Galway. You are invited to come to the official opening by James Harald (Galway City Arts Officer) at 3pm on Saturday 11th December. It is a special celebration too as Groundworks Studios is officially 1 year old in December! And what a year it has been. Here are just some of the successes of the group:

 Following an exciting launch exhibition at Groundworks Studios in December 2010, the group quickly transformed the space to accommodate 15 full time studio members.
 Further fund-raising secured shared equipment such as a kiln, textile-printing equipment, studio furniture, etc.
 “Random Shuffle”, an exhibition of textile, ceramic and mixed media artwork took place in an unoccupied retail space in Abbeygate Street in July.
 Participation in Heritage Week with “Open Week’ at the Studios.
 A series of workshops in ceramics, textiles and creativity was launched in September, which brought members of the public into Groundworks Studios to learn new skills. For further information on ongoing workshops contact Emer on 087 4172029.
 Participation in Galway Culture Night in collaboration with other artists at Niland House Gallery, Merchants Road.
 In October, Groundworks Studios participated in the SCCUL Enterprise Awards at the Ballybane Enterprise Centre. Here the group’s display of work attracted a lot of admiring attention.
 In November the group launched “Open Studio” every Thursday from 12 until 6pm until December 16th.
 Individuals within the group have also been involved in the Crafts Council of Ireland’s Future Makers and CraftEd Programmes, Showcase Ireland, features in magazines such as House and Home and Galway Now, interviews on Galway Bay FM and involvement in other group exhibitions at home and abroad.

You can follow the group’s activities on Facebook or at www.groundworksstudios.com. If you would like to support the group in its future plans please contact Emer on 087 4172029 to become a “Friend of GroundWorks Studios”.

Crafts Exhibition at Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

2010-11-25T05:04:00.001-08:00

I'm off to Castlebar on Saturday 27th November, with a whole new batch of embroidered journals, textile wall-art and other goodies for the annual craft fair at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar. This is always a great event organised by Alex and Brendan. The Arts Centre has a nice coffee-shop and it's a busy venue on the main street. I enjoy meeting customers who come to visit year after year and it's great to catch up with other craftspeople and see what they are working on. I often come home with a few Christmas purchases of my own as there is a great selection of ceramics, woodwork, jewellery, textiles and lots more on offer. If you are in the area, pop in and say hello as we get ready to enter into the Christmas season!

Printing Photos onto Fabric Workshop on Inisheer

2010-11-15T15:46:00.000-08:00

An invitation to the Aran Islands is not one to refuse! So, when Mary McCarthy of "Mna le Cheile" asked me to come to Inisheer to demonstrate printing photos onto fabric, I didn't have to think twice.

But being November, with storms and rough seas forecast during the week, I was afraid that Winter was going to put a stop to my excitement.

However, although Saturday was rainy....it was calm enough at sea and the ferry was running.

The workshop went very quickly as we wanted to try a good few techniques including:

Miracle Fabric Sheets from CJenkins }
EQ Printables from the Electric Quilt Company } both recommended for inkjet printers
Tshirt transfer paper from Tesco ironed onto fabric
Image Maker solution painted onto a photocopy and transferred to fabric
Acrylic Medium painted onto a photocopy and transferred to fabric
Printing directly onto our own fabric cut to A4 and ironed onto Freezer Paper to stabilise it before printing with laser/inkjet.

This photo shows the paper being removed from the Imagemaker print.

This photo shows the result of a tshirt transfer print.

Jenny and Cormac seem pleased with the result of the Imagemaker transfer.

Images of Inisheer hanging up to dry!

Each of these techniques has its own advantages and disadvantages. Results can vary depending on the printer, the brand of product used, the fabric used, etc. Colour and light-fastness will depend on the number of washes, the detergent used, etc.

But this workshop was a 'hands-on' introduction to the possibilities of incorporating printed photographs, drawings, documents, etc. into your own work to personalise it further.

Those attending the workshop came from different backgrounds in weaving, felting, patchwork, photography, costume design, etc. So hopefully everyone went away having learned something new to apply to their own work in the future.

As for me......

I learned a lot, as usual when I teach a workshop.
I received a warm welcome on a rainy night with delicious homemade soup and brown-bread.
I slept cosily under Mary and Pat's thatched roof in their lovely home.
I woke to a beautiful November morning on Inisheer looking out at the Atlantic.
I reminded myself of how magical Inisheer is at any time of year.

A big thanks to Mary for inviting me and to everyone at the class for such a lovely welcome. Go raibh mile maith agaibh!

Open Days at Groundworks Studios every Thursday until 16th December

2010-11-11T01:56:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos of my embroidered journals and 'Mo Ghra Thu' blocks on display at the Open Day at Groundworks Studios on Thursday 11th November from 12-6pm (and every Thursday until December 16th). In the photo you can also see ceramics by Roisin Gregory and embroidered brooches by Caroline Moran.
These are just some of the textile, ceramic, fashion, interior and jewellery products made for sale by members of Groundworks Studios. If you are in Galway on Thursdays make your way to Lyrr Building 3, Mervue Business Park (entrance on Monivea Road if you are driving or through the pedestrian access opposite Renault Garage on the Tuam Road). This is a chance to meet the makers and see a selection of work being produced.

Creative Jounalling Class at Mohill Family Resource Centre, Leitrim

2010-11-09T15:31:00.000-08:00

These are just some of the pages created by those attending the workshops on 'Creative Journalling' at Mohill Family Resource Centre. In our first class we looked at simple tricks to overcome the fear of starting to write, draw, collage or paint onto a brand-new white page. Then we used a variety of sources to try to find 'jump-off' or 'starting' points to express something on paper. The journals are meant to be a safe place to learn to explore ideas. Refining those ideas will come later.....for now it's all about learning to have fun and lose yourself in the process without worrying about the outcome. The course runs for 3 weeks, so hopefully we'll see some more pages from this group soon.

Mo ghra thu (I love you) series

2010-10-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

Some new 'Mo ghra thu (I love you)' pieces destined for Kaleidoscope in Westport and the Cork Textiles Network stand at the Knitting and Stitching Show in the RDS.

Embroidered Journals for GroundWorks Studios

2010-10-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

Some new journals on their way to the GroundWorks stand at the Ballybane Enterprise Centre on Thursday 21st October. As a new Enterprise set up in 2009/2010 in the Mervue and Ballybane area, GroundWorks Studios is one of a number of new businesses being considered for Enterprise Awards in the area. This is a great opportunity for the group to inform the public and the local business community about what has been achieved in the first year and future plans for the group.

GroundWorks Studios will open to the public with artworks for sale every Thursday from mid-November until Christmas. I will have some work available for sale at these open days. More info to come.

New Journals in jewel-colours!

2010-10-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

A new batch of A6 Journals are off to Kaleidoscope, the new craft gallery in Westport, www.kaleidoscopearts.ie. These have been made in a variety of jewel colours, with mixed textures of chenille, wool, silk and cotton, vintage buttons and beads, variegated threads and some words printed on fabrics and 'salvaged' from a beautiful old book of sheet music from around 1890-1920.

I hope to make some more journals soon in anticipation of the opening of my new on-line shop (watch this space!). A big thank you to Aga, creator of beautiful yarns and knitted shawls (see www.etsy.com/shop/knitspinfelt) who took the time recently to walk me through the experience of setting up shop on www.etsy.com.

Mo ghra thu (I love you)...new series of work

2010-10-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

I'm working on making a new series of 'Mo ghra thu (I love you) 8x8 blocks. I'm changing the colour of the text in the background, the thread I'm sketching with and the border covering the deep frame. The one above is on its way to a new craft shop on Bridge Street in Westport. See http://www.kaleidoscopearts.ie/ for more info on this lovely shop/gallery of contemporary Irish Art and Craft.

"Seeing Red" an exhibition of work by Cork Textiles Network currently showing at the Bishopstown Library, Cork until 29th October

2010-10-09T13:06:00.000-07:00

These 4 pieces are stretched over "fat 8's" (8 x 8 inch deep frames). The theme for the Cork Textiles Network exhibition is "Seeing Red". I wanted to play with thread-sketching with a black and white background and free-machine embroidery in red thread. I printed the words 'mo ghra thu' (I love you) as a background on white cotton. Adding wadding to the back, I free-machine quilted my drawings and patterns on top. I added a red border to cover the deep frame.

One of these sold on the opening night, so that was nice!

Courses in pottery, textiles and creativity at GroundWorks Studios

2010-09-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

GroundWorks Studios are offering a range of courses in pottery, weaving, textile printing, patchwork, feltmaking, creative embroidery and creative journalling. For a full list of classes and information on how to apply see www.groundworksstudios.blogspot.com. Courses start the week of 4th October.

Galway Culture Night 24th September

2010-09-22T04:14:00.000-07:00

Galway Culture Night takes place this Friday, 24th September with a fantastic range of free events at over 30 venues around the city. For a full list of events see www.galwayculturenight.com.

Some of my work will be included along with other members of GroundWorks Studios and a range of other artists at Niland House, Merchants Road, Galway. I am showing some patchwork pieces to promote the workshops I will be teaching at GroundWorks Studios, Lyrr Building, Mervue Business Park, starting in October. For a full list of textile and ceramics workshops see www.groundworksstudios.blogspot.com

'Galway Now' & 'Limerick Now' magazine is on-line

2010-09-22T01:24:00.001-07:00

Golden Egg Publications published an article written by Lynda Cookson about my textile work in their July/August magazines. It featured in both 'Galway Now' and 'Limerick Now'and the article can now be seen on-line at www.goldenegg.ie/2010/features/the-artist-ester-kiely/

'Seeing Red': An exhibition by Cork Textiles Network

2010-09-20T08:32:00.001-07:00

I'm currently working on some pieces for this exhibition which opens on 7th October and runs until 29th October.

'Tread softly, tread bravely'

2010-09-20T07:10:00.000-07:00

This baby quilt/wall-hanging is now completed. It was inspired by the WB Yeats Poem, ' He wishes for the cloths of heaven'. It is intended as a quilt to wrap and protect the newborn, cushion the falls of a toddler, protect the growing child on their journey to adulthood and remind them of their parents' unconditional love.

Patchwork Tuesdays!

2010-09-08T14:56:00.000-07:00

Patchwork classes for beginners will start on Tuesday 21st Sep from 10.00am to 12.30 in Manusflynn, near Caherlistrane, Co. Galway. For full details click here: http://esterkiely.blogspot.com/p/patchwork-classes.html. Places are very limited so if you are interested make contact quickly! esterkiely@gmail.com

"Make it New" Exhibition by Textile Art Forum at Lakelands Quilt Festival

2010-09-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

The Lakelands Quilt Festival runs for the month of September at the museum in Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan. As a member of the Textile Art Forum, my work is included in the group's exhibition "Make it New" which is part of the festival programme. For some lovely photos taken by group member Jan click here www.textileartforum.blogspot.com.

Tread Softly, Tread Bravely

2010-08-31T15:20:00.000-07:00

Photos of a small baby quilt in progress, inspired by the WB Yeats Poem "He wishes for the Cloths of Heaven".

GroundWorks Studios offer workshops in textiles and ceramics for Heritage Week

2010-08-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

Photo: Emer Hughes at work at her loom

I'm an associate member of GroundWorks Studios and am delighted to be part of this new vibrant collective in Galway.

As part of Heritage Week the Studio will open its doors to the public for a range of workshops in textiles and ceramics. For more details click here www.heritageweek.ie/en/HomeSearchDetails.aspx?EventID=4701

For more information on GroundWorks Studios see www.groundworksstudios.com and www.groundworksstudios.blogspot.com and Facebook.

'Random Shuffle' An exhibition by GroundWorks Studios

2010-07-24T15:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of the window display of work by GroundWorks Studios in Abbeygate Street. The work will remain on exhibition until 8th August and may move to another venue after that. For more information on the studios visit http://www.groundworksstudios.com/ and http://www.groundworksstudios.blogspot.com/.

'Random Shuffle' An exhibition by members of GroundWorks Studios

2010-07-23T14:48:00.000-07:00

"Random Shuffle" is an exhibition of work by members of GroundWorks Studios and was opened by Galway Arts Officer, James Harold on Friday 23rd July and will run until August 8th in Abbeygate Street, Galway (next to Subway).

GroundWorks Studios is based in Mervue Business Park and provides facilities for ceramics and textile artists in a collective environment. This is the group's second exhibition and provides a showcase of recent work by the artists at a Galway city centre venue, to coincide with Galway Arts Festival and Galway Racing Festival.

For more information see www.groundworksstudios.com and www.groundworksstudios.blogspot.com.

Fantastic workshop with "Sampler Culture Clash"

2010-07-23T05:27:00.000-07:00

I was delighted to be invited to participate in the "Sampler Culture Clash" workshop at the "Golden Thread Gallery" in Belfast on the 22nd of July. The workshop coincided with the exhibition "Changing Art and Minds" by the "Support for Women" project at the Leitrim Design House.

Artists David Littler and Yusra Warsama led participants through a process of interpreting their responses to the work on exhibition and translating these written words into cross-stitch samplers.

The cross-stitch patterns were also made into a tape which feeds into a piano player machine to create music.

Words also came together to form 'poems' which were recorded to create a soundtrack to accompany the exhibition when it moves to the Leitrim Design House for the opening on 19th August at 5.30pm. You are welcome to attend!

For more information about "Sampler Culture Clash" see www.sampler-cultureclash.blogspot.com.

For more information about the "Support for Women" exhibition "Changing Art and Minds" see www.intoleitrim.com.

Changing Art & Minds: Golden Thread Gallery, Belfast

2010-07-22T00:51:00.000-07:00

'Changing Art & Minds' is an exhibition at the Golden Thread Gallery which runs from 22nd to 31st July 2010. It is an exploration of the creative journey of the Supports for Women project. Supports for Women is a creative learning experiment for women living in Leitrim and the project was set up to encourage women to share their personal stories by using the arts, crafts, creative journaling and conflict resolution tools.
By using a multi-disciplinary approach, the project took the participants on a year long journey of self-discovery and personal growth while also challenging the old negative beliefs that have been inherited in the border county as a result of the conflict. 'Changing Art & Minds' showcases the work created during the year and hopefully changes minds through the arts in the process.
The exhibition includes work in textiles, glass, painting and drawing and mixed media made by the women during workshops with Jewellery designer Erika Marks, visual artists Laura Gallagher and Mari Aymone d'Jeribi, glass artist Louise Rice and textile artist Brigitta Varadi.
I was delighted to be involved in this project at the Leitrim Design House helping participants rediscover their creativity through visual journalling along with Therese Hackett who provided support to the group with conflict resolution.
If you are in Belfast in July be sure to check out the Golden Thread Gallery for this exhibition which also connects with August Craft Month with workshops and other activities.

'Jigs and Reels' A quilt finished!

2010-07-21T01:50:00.000-07:00

The photo shows the finished quilt top before layering, quilting, binding and washing.

The quilt was finished in time for a fabulous 21st party in July.

I brought the quilt to Frances Conroy in Maam to have it quilted with an all-over swirly love-heart pattern in pink. Frances did a fantastic job and had the quilt ready in time for me to complete it by adding a candy-stripe binding.

As with most of my quilts, I machine-washed it and cool tumble-dried it. As I use cotton wadding I like the slight crinkly shrinking that happens when a quilt is washed. I think it helps to give it a warm, soft, cosy look. Also it comforts me to know that the quilt can now stand up to normal everyday usage and be thrown in a washing machine (at a 30 degree wash) as often as necessary.

I hope to take a good photo of the finished quilt soon and show it here. So watch this space.

'Jigs and Reels' a quilt in progress

2010-07-20T05:05:00.000-07:00

It always amazes me how secondary patterns start to form when patchwork blocks are put together edge-to-edge.
Sometimes it is difficult to visualise in advance how a quilt will look . The pattern for this quilt came from the book "Clever Quarters Too" but the quilt photographed in the book is totally different in dark red, green and cream.
As with every project I learn a lot as I work my way through it.
For example, I hadn't really paid attention to the fact that each block is made up of 21 pieces within a 9in square! With 30 blocks required for the quilt that's a lot of small pieces to sew together (630 to be exact!). With a pieced border as well, it brings the total number of pieces in the quilt to 806!! This seems a little daunting!
The challenge would have been obvious had I read the pattern through before I started (lesson no. 1!). However, in a way I'm glad I just jumped right in, as it meant I just got on with it. By approaching it like a production line, it came together fairly quickly! And it wasn't as complicated as it looks! Honest!

'Jigs and Reels' a quilt in progress

2010-07-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

Discussions about this quilt started some time ago. My niece's 21st in July required a special gift and so I made a trip to Maeve Meaney at the Limerick Quilt Centre with my sister and sister-in-law to select some fabrics. We had a warm welcome from Maeve who put the kettle on as we arrived! Then my sister and sister-in-law set to work on selecting some special fabrics. As my niece is studying traditional music and dance at the University of Limerick, a music theme was going to show up in the quilt somewhere. With all the family history of knitting, sewing, lace-making and embroidery through the generations, a sewing theme became an obvious choice as well. The light and dark turquoise floral prints brought back fond memories of my mother's sense of style. And the old-fashioned floral/stripe fabric was so pretty we couldn't resist. The block-pattern and overall quilt design was chosen from the book "Clever Quarters Too" by Susan Teegarden Dissmore.
Cutting of the fabric started in May and here is the first block ready for assembly. More photos to follow

A taste of World Culture at Leitrim Design House

2010-07-09T04:15:00.001-07:00

Leitrim Design House will host a World Culture Day on July 11th. This is a family event with lots to see and do. For more information see www.intoleitrim.com.

Galway Now and Limerick Now feature

2010-07-01T04:53:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to be featured in the 'artist profile' page by Lynda Cookson in the July/August edition of Galway Now and Limerick Now magazines. It's nice that Lynda decided to title the feature "Aunt Gobnait's Parcels from America" in honour of the aunt who provided me with the inspiration to travel and to sew.

Abbeyknockmoy ICA group completes quilt!

2010-06-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

The enthusiastic ICA women in Abbeyknockmoy have made a fantastic job of their centenary quilt! Tonight was their final class where they learned how to attach the binding and the hanging sleeve to their completed quilt. They will add the final hand-stitches to the binding and the sleeve on the back of the quilt on their own and then they will have completed their project.

So my work with this group comes to a close. I enjoyed the classes hugely and was extremely impressed with this dedicated group of new patchworkers. They rose to all the challenges of getting to know unfamiliar sewing machines, making quarter-inch seams, accurate piecing, machine-quilting and lots more.

This was a wonderful group to work with....not just because they came to every class equiped with wonderful home-baking to tempt me!! I was very warmly welcomed into the community hall in Abbeyknockmoy every week and loved every minute of the 10 classes we had together. I hope our paths will cross often in the future around the local area and at future patchworking events in Galway and beyond!

"Where do you come from"

2010-06-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

"Where do you come from" features a photo of a derelict Irish cottage and a map of Balinora, Co. Cork printed onto calico and stretched over an 8x8inch frame. I can now reveal I made this for the "secret postcard" section of the "Down the Road" exhibition in St. Fin Barre's Cathedral. "Secret Postcards" are sold on the opening night of the exhibition (all at the same price) and the artist name is not known at the time of purchase. The money received is used to help fund future Cork Textiles Network events.

"The man who built the wall"

2010-06-03T15:40:00.000-07:00

"The man who built the wall" is part of a triptych I've made for "Down the Road" an exhibition of textiles by Cork Textiles Network at St. Fin Barre's Cathedral in Cork which opens today and runs until 17th June. For more information see www.corktextiles.com.

This piece is hand-painted onto calico and free-machine quilted. It is part of my on-going obsession with the beautiful dry-stone walls around my home in County Galway.

New journals in stock!

2010-06-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

Just some of the embroidered notebooks I have added to my stock recently! These are blank A6 sketchbooks/journals that I've made covers for. No two covers are the same as the combinations of vintage fabrics, threads, buttons, beads and embellishments cannot be repeated exactly. When the journal is full simply remove the cover to put on your new A6 journal.

London calling!

2010-05-31T04:31:00.000-07:00

Travelling always provides me with lots of inspiration. I love to be on the way to somewhere....anywhere! I love packing, people-watching at airports, arriving at my new 'home' for a few days and the 'foreigness' of every little thing in a different country.
Here are just a few photos of things that caught my eye on a recent trip to London.

A fabric shop on Berwick St. used old dress-making patterns to decorate one of it's interior walls.

A photo from the Ryanair in-flight mag seemed ripe for reinterpreting in fabric and stitch.

A criminal offence! All these lovely old sewing machines had been used as a window display on Regent St. and were being thrown onto the pavement outside as part of a shop-renovation. How I longed to rescue them....but Ryanair baggage allowance does not allow for such sentimentality!

Cork Textiles Network exhibition 3rd to 17th June

2010-05-31T04:13:00.000-07:00

I'm working on some pieces to include in this exhibition in Cork in June. Check out the Cork Textiles website on http://www.corktextiles.com/ for some photos of the work by its wide range of textile artist members (you don't have to be from Cork or living in Cork to join...It's open to everyone!)

Feile na Tuaithe, Castlebar Museum of Country Life

2010-05-23T15:22:00.000-07:00

The weather was fantastic on 22nd and 23rd May for this great annual event at the Museum of Country Life in Castlebar. Lots of beautiful craftwork for sale with traditional craft demonstrations and exhibitions in the park grounds. If you haven't already visited this Museum it's worth a trip and watch out for Feile na Tuaithe next year!

Feile na Tuaithe, Museum of Country Life, Castlebar

2010-05-11T05:03:00.000-07:00

I'll be stitching furiously over the coming days in preparation for Feile na Tuaithe at the Museum of Country Life, Castlebar on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd May, 2010.

This is a very enjoyable event as there are lots of outdoor activities for the children to enjoy: music concerts, magic-shows, facepainting, etc. There are food and craft producers exhibiting their work in 2 marquees. A number of traditional craftspeople will demonstrate their techniques. The museum's permanent and temporary exhibitions are open to enjoy. Various artists are invited to create sculpture and other installations around the lake and the grounds. The restaurant and shop are open all day. And if the weather is good, there's plenty of nice picnic spots around the grounds.

Art in Action, Townley Hall, Slane Rd, Drogheda

2010-05-09T04:22:00.000-07:00

Art in Action is an event that takes place every year on the June Bank Holiday Weekend. I've attended since 2000: first as a customer, then a craft-trader and now a demonstrating artist since 2008. I've always been hugely impressed with the quality and variety of arts, crafts, workshops, demonstrations, music recitals, food providers at this event. Come along from 5th to 7th June, 2010 (only 30mins from Dublin on the M1) and meet the makers, watch them work, ask questions and be inspired! For more information see http://www.artinaction.ie/.

"The West's Awake" exhibition opens at Galway City Museum

2010-05-04T13:36:00.000-07:00

We gathered at the Galway City Museum on a sunny Tuesday evening to celebrate the opening of "The West's Awake", an exhibition by the Western Branch of the Irish Patchwork Society. The Mayor of Galway, Declan McDonnell complimented the group on the variety of work displayed. Sandlin Poth presented the Mayor with a cushion inspired by the marble tiles in the Galway City Cathedral. For more photos and information about this exhibition which runs until the end of May see http://www.westernips.blogspot.com/.

Irish Quilt & Craft Magazine (May/June Issue)

2010-05-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Frances J. Sawaya (http://www.francessawaya.com/) is a feature writer for Irish Quilt & Craft Magazine (http://www.irishquiltandcraft.com/) as well as the organiser of the wonderful Lakelands Quilt Fair every September in the Ballyjamesduff Museum, Cavan. The May/June issue of Irish Quilt & Craft Magazine features a photograph of one of my wall-hangings showing the use of recylcled 'colour-catchers'. I was very flattered to see a photo of mine in print! Thanks Frances!
This transparent wall-hanging will also feature in the exhibition 'Make it New' by the Textile Art Forum (http://www.textileartforum.blogspot.com/) at this year's Lakeland Quilt Fair in September.

Classes 4 & 5 with Abbeyknockmoy ICA group

2010-04-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Breege adds a bit of satin-stitch to the logo.

Kathleen, May and Liz adjust the stitch to zigzag and alter the length and width to create the satin-stitch required.

And the quilt-top is almost complete. The logo is finished for the centre block and almost all the green sashing strips are attached. Next week we decide on the outer border and hopefully start to layer the quilt together to get ready for quilting.

Classes 4 & 5 with Abbeyknockmoy ICA group

2010-04-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

The Abbeyknockmoy ICA group have settled into some serious sewing now. They've learned how to measure up the strips of sashing require to go between each block. The green fabric they've chosen is based on the colours of the ICA logo.

Annette and Phil learn how to adjust the zig-zag stitch to create a satin stitch which can be used to create a decorative finish around an applique shape. In this case they are creating the green, white and blue circles of the ICA logo for the centre block.

Theresa works on joining the blocks together with the green sashing strips in between.

Phil's previous experience making Irish-dancing costumes helps her pick up this new technique quickly!

Breege is very comfortable sewing the sashing strips in place.

Patti quickly accomplishes the skills required to use satin-stitch to applique shapes in place on a small sample piece.

Creative Journalling Classes with Mohill Family Resource Centre

2010-04-14T06:22:00.000-07:00

In our third class we developed our ideas further. We played with new materials like foil, bondaweb and tyvek. All of these can add dimension to collage-work.

Using clear plastic sheets (like transparency film) can create layers of interest.

Combining images and materials from different sources can help create connections between different aspects of your life.

Experimenting and playing with household materials (like cling-film) allows you to become resourceful in using what you have around you to express your ideas.

Patchwork Classes with Abbeyknockmoy ICA

2010-04-08T05:50:00.000-07:00

In our third class we were ready to look at adding 'sashing' around each block. As the group wanted to include the colours from the ICA logo we looked at both blue and green as possible sashing options. The majority voted to use green as it created a 'fresher' overall look to the piece.

We began cutting the strips to the desired sashing width and stitching the blocks together in rows. In class 4 we will add the rows together and hopefully make our own ICA logo for the central block. All along we have been using a stitched logo which was given to us just to see how it might look.

Everyone seems pleased with the progress so far and looking forward to the next step.

Creative Journalling Classes with Mohill Family Resource Centre

2010-04-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Keeping a journal is a great way to express your own ideas on how you see the world. A journal can be a place where you are free to explore your thoughts no matter how crazy they may seem.

This course is suitable for all ages and no previous artistic experience is necessary. Using a combination of simple techniques and thought-provoking exercises you will be more aware of ideas you want to express and learn how to do it.

Rediscover your creative side (I have yet to meet someone who doesn't have a creative side, despite their belief to the contrary!). Become absorbed as you learn how to ignore your inner critic and just play with creativity.

Become aware of your own likes and dislikes. Discover your taste in colour. Discover you can draw eventhough you may have convinced yourself you can't.

Find connections between things that come together to express your vision of the world.

Let your journal inspire you to start other creative projects in your home, garden or at work.

The images above are from the journals created by participants in this course of 5 classes in Mohill, Co. Leitrim. These were created in their second class.

Patchwork Classes with Abbeyknockmoy ICA

2010-03-25T17:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight was this group's 3rd patchwork class. Liz arrived with her block already pieced together! Gold star for enthusiasm!

Liz

Brid quickly completed hers soon after.

Patchwork Classes with Abbeyknockmoy ICA

2010-03-25T16:56:00.001-07:00

Kathleen

May

Patty

Theresa

The group worked together on the colours chosen by Annette and Phil who couldn't attend tonight and soon we had 7 finished blocks and one almost there! A sample ICA logo was used to help us get an idea of the central block, which we need to tackle next. We might still swap the blocks around until we are happy with the layout. We still need to add sashing between the blocks and a border in ICA colours. But the group achieved a lot tonight. For most of the group members this is their first attempt at patchwork. Pretty impressive work I think!

West Awake: Galway Traditions

2010-03-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

The Western Branch of the Irish Patchwork Society holds an exhibition every two years and the next one opens on 1st May, 2010 at the Galway City Museum. The exhibition is entitled 'West Awake'. I was thinking about this and wanted to do something that celebrates something unique to Galway.
When I first arrived I walked the Salthill promenade with a friend and laughed when she told me I had to kick the wall at Blackrock as 'it's the tradition' I thought she was joking me but then I stood and watched as almost everyone who walked to this point gave the wall a kick and turned around to walk back in the direction they came!
Despite asking many people about it, the only explanation I seem to get is 'it's tradition'! And so, with camera and tripod in-hand I spent a morning at the wall, asking people if I could photograph 'the kick'. Lots of people joked with me on the day and were curious to find out what I was going to do with the photos.
I've printed a number of these onto fabric to make up a wall-hanging and I will stitch into these further and I think I will quilt in some text as well. I hope to finish this in time for the exhibition in May.

Textile Art Forum Update

2010-03-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

Day 4 of the Textile Art Forum residential at Ballyduggan Cottages.

On Thursday I took a walk up 'The Old Town Trail' at the back of the cottages. The 360 degree view from the top was lovely looking down on the lake, back towards the Mourne mountains and on to Downpatrick. I walked back through the Sally Gardens.

Then back to work stitching!

The photo above shows the variety of muted shades of 'Colour-catchers' I have collected from the household laundry and just have to include in stitch projects because they are so nice!

Textile Art Forum Update

2010-03-16T04:18:00.000-07:00

Day 3 of the Textile Art Forum residential at Ballyduggan Cottages:

'Buttermilk Cottage' was full of nooks and crannies. This photo was taken from the hallway, through a little window into the kitchen and across to the outside window. Jan's tulips from Amsterdam sit in a jug on the windowsill. The cottage windows were so nice I took loads of photos into and out of them!

I spent the day experimenting with different media (Clear gloss, clear semi-gloss and white matte precoat Inkaid's) painted onto different fabrics (bleached cotton, unbleached cotton and linen). Once these were totally dry I printed onto them using a standard inkjet printer. I then washed the pieces to see how 'fast' the colours remained. This was a good day's work as I learned a lot about the media, the fabric and the printer so that I will know what to use depending on the effect I hope to achieve for future design-work.

The photo above was a sunset over the stone-walls on Inisheer in 2009.

The photo I printed here is of the stone walls at home in the snow with thorny brambles.

The photo here is of my stone walls again at sunrise.

And here they are again at sunset with the sun shining through the walls.

Textile Art Forum Update

2010-03-14T13:43:00.001-07:00

Day 2 of Textile Art Forum Residential at Ballyduggan Cottages:

I wanted to work on creating individual 'stones' instead of embroidering/quilting onto a whole-cloth piece as I've been doing lately. I hoped to create a more airy, lighter piece.

I used some 'colour-catcher' swatches I have been saving from my household laundry (because I hate to throw them out as they always seem to be such nice random dyed pieces!). They varied in colour from grey and blue to pink but they reminded me of my stone-walls at home when the sun hits them at different times of the day.

I joined them together by stitching through the spaces between them on water-soluble fabric.

Jan donated some light pink organza for the background, which was just what I needed for the 'floaty' effect I hoped to achieve. I added a foil moon and used the bare branches of the hedge outside my window as the inspiration for my stitched patterns.

The whole piece went into the bath to dissolve the water-soluble fabric as you can see in the photo above! Then I hung it out to dry on the line before lunch!

I like the way it floated about in the breeze, with the lovely stone cottage in the background for the photograph.

This was a satisfying experimental piece to work on.

Textile Art Forum Update

2010-03-12T01:01:00.001-08:00

Day 1 of Textile Art Forum residential at Ballyduggan Cottages

The theme for the current series of work by the Textile Art Forum is 'deconstruct/reconstruct'.

My current work is based on the dry stone walls in the West of Ireland. I love these temporary-looking structures which can be easily dismantled and rebuilt. Yet they have stood for years, keeping livestock contained in the fields, marking boundaries between farms, providing habitats for native plants and animals, etc. I like the fact that the these walls were built with the stones found in the fields when they were clearing the land for farming. It was a practical 'make-do and mend' solution to use the materials available on site to build walls.

As well as my contemporary wall-hangings I'm also 'recycling' scraps of fabrics into a colourful quilt. Most of these fabrics are cut from old clothing or left over from other projects so in the spirit of 'make-do and mend' I am making something new.

We discussed eachother's completed pieces and our work in progress and confirmed our plans for the collection of work for 'Make it New' our exhibition which opens at the Lakeland Quilt Festival, Ballyjamesduff Museum, Cavan in September 2010.

With our initial discussions completed and following a lovely shared lunch....it was time to take a walk down Lake Road to see my surroundings. I photographed my walk and was inspired by the light of the setting sun through bare branches, the reflections of the swans in the lake and the sight of colourful boats through the rushes.

Patchwork Classes with Abbeyknockmoy ICA

2010-03-11T12:26:00.000-08:00

2010 sees the ICA celebrating its centenary. To mark the occasion, the Abbeyknockmoy ICA group decided to make a patchwork wall-hanging. I met with the group to discuss what kind of work they wanted to do and they decided to make a wall-hanging where each of the 8 members of the group would choose their own colours to make an 'Ohio Star' block. A central block will be made with the ICA logo and ICA colours will also be incorporated in the hanging. On 11th March the group began their first class. They learned how to measure and cut the pieces required to make each block. For most of them this was their first time using rotary cutters, rulers and self-healing mats. With a bit of practice they all grew in confidence and were looking forward to the next stage....learning to piece the blocks in class 2 on 18th March.