This is one of my favourite commissions that I designed and hand made in my studio along the Wild Atlantic Way while dreaming of a time when I can walk in the sands of the Aran Islands.
I have used a pattern of the stone walls from Aran, a crios from the islands and vintage knit that has been rust dyed. A very tactile and organic piece of art that the client loved and that looks incredible in her sitting room. This is her favourite poem and in particular the last 5 lines. I knew the colour scheme of her room and we had spoken about earthy tones and textures. I knew I wanted to create something that was at one with nature and that would stimulate the senses . I wanted to make a piece of art that exudes the Aran Islands and its beauty.
Faoiseamh a Gheobhadsa
Le Máirtín Ó’Díreáin
Faoiseamh a gheobhadsa
Seal beag gairid
I measc mo dhaoine
Ar oileán mara,
Ag siúl cois cladaigh
Maidin is tráthnóna
Ó Luan go Satharn
Thiar ag baile
Faoiseamh a gheobhadsa
Seal beag gairid
I measc mo dhaoine
Ó chrá chroí,
Ó bhuairt aigne,
Ó uaigneas dhuairc
Ó chaint ghontach
Thiar ag baile
This timeless poem was my brief for this commission , in particular the last 5 lines. I love getting a commission like this as I have free rein to create something from a handful of words. I know the client and what she appreciates and throughout the process I update and ask a few more questions about colour/tone but she trusts my judgement and instinct as that is how I work. The piece comes together after a lot of research, planning and sourcing and developing fabrics- in this case I rust dyed knit, felted an Aran jumper and I had photos that I had taken from when I visited Inis Mór ( where the poet was born). I kept the colour scheme as natural, earthy and true to the poet's roots as much as I could. Starting the project is exciting and nerve wrecking because I am following my gut instinct yet thinking of the client too. The composition of the work can take a long time because I need to be able to find the correct place for each piece of fabric . Usually that takes the most time, if it's not right I change it , I can't describe it but when it's right I feel it.
The frame for this piece really complements the work , thank you @aidan_connaughton_photography
I'll add the translation of the poem below ( correct me please if there is an error!)
I would find peace
I would find it
For a short time
Amongst my people
On an island in the sea
Walking on the beach
From morning to evening
From Monday to Saturday
At home in the west
I would find peace
For a short time
Amongst my people
Free my anguish of the heart
From miserable loneliness
From the cold mind
At home in the west.
