My journey with textiles began in a shanty town, Lima, Peru,2006, where I learnt the craft of crochet from a local lady. Having been awarded a BA in Textiles in 2014, specialising in fine art weaving, I then completed an internship with Master Weaver Beth Moran of Ballytoughey Loom, Clare Island. In 2018, I left my studio in the Liberties, Dublin, and am now working from my studio/ shop in the quaint town of Ennistymon, Co Clare. I am a member of the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCOI).
I have an appreciation and love for Irish traditions, culture and heritage and I hope to reflect this in my weaving, crochet and spinning, looking to the past for traditional styles, yet creating pieces with an alternative, contemporary, individual twist and edge. To quote folklorist Seán Ó Súilleabháin referring to Irish traditional crafts ‘as a continuation and survival of a very ancient way of thinking’
I have an appreciation and love for Irish traditions, culture and heritage and I hope to reflect this in my weaving, crochet and spinning, looking to the past for traditional styles, yet creating pieces with an alternative, contemporary, individual twist and edge. To quote folklorist Seán Ó Súilleabháin referring to Irish traditional crafts ‘as a continuation and survival of a very ancient way of thinking’
I create pieces that are creative yet functional such as scarves, throws, blankets, guitar straps and also pieces of a more artistic, fine art quality, such as wall hangings and framed pieces. Aware of the environment, I aim to use materials that are natural, organic and sourced locally as much as possible, and to re use and recycle materials in weaving projects, aiming for Irish Hand Weaves to be a sustainable project. I always look to my local environment for inspiration, such as the beauty of the natural landscape, local traditions, customs, and folklore. I also travel within my own imagination for illumination and creativity.
As an individual, I believe in social inclusion and equality, spiritual connection, creative expression, empowerment and freedom, and I hope to fulfil these avenues through my creative artwork and projects.
As an individual, I believe in social inclusion and equality, spiritual connection, creative expression, empowerment and freedom, and I hope to fulfil these avenues through my creative artwork and projects.
Special thanks to Fabienne Bernes for photographing Jean at work in her studio.
