I am always out in Dingle town whether it’s for grocery shopping, collecting the kids
or getting a quick walk in. Every time I pass the Original Kerry shop I gaze in the
window at Karen’s work. I have always loved it and have for the last few years, been
in contact with Karen hoping that we could work together but materialised for one
reason or another. Until now! I am so very happy that she has been able to print a
set of her lovely sheep cards for you. These can of course be framed! … indeed do
send them to someone if you wish to. What beautiful art. Let’s hear from Karen
herself:
"I take my inspiration from what is just outside the front door!
I'm endlessly enchanted by the ever changing palette of colours and the tactile
richness that the Irish landscapes have to offer.
On a clear night you can see a thousand stars twinkling in the sky above our little
stone cottage nestled deep in the countryside of the Southwest of Ireland. Needless
to say, much of my work is inspired by nature and the mountains, forests and
coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way that surrounds me!"
Karen works from her cottage studio in County Kerry. She is self-taught and has
developed her own distinctive style of making recycled art.
Her work incorporates textile waste from local businesses, repurposed clothing,
scraps of old lace and broken bead necklaces. Layers of textured fabrics, Irish
tweeds and felted wools are used to re-create the colours and textures of the
surrounding landscapes. Each textile creation is carefully handcrafted using a mix of
hand and machine stitching, raw edge applique, beadwork, embroidery and paint,
and every piece is guaranteed to be one of a kind.
Many of her designs are playful and reminiscent of the simple delights of childhood
storybooks, evoking fond memories and capturing the magic of happy, carefree
times.