Broken for you 2008
50cms x 50cms
Glass, porcelain
The chapel of the Jesuit residence, Limerick

Broken for you is a Eucharistic cross. The form of the cross, created by the broken host, and surrounded by a crown of thorns over radiating discs, emphasises the links between the Eucharist, shared suffering and loving self sacrifice.

Jesus came and stood among them 2009
Glass, porcelain, wood
Tabernacle for the Convent Chapel, Carrigoran Nursing Home, Co Clare
Further images of this piece can be seen on the gallery page.

Designed for a private chapel, in a nursing home, where the community prays their daily office.  The porcelain tabernacle is a slim standing presence placed at the apex of the oval formed by the ceiling, lighting and chairs, in the midst of the gathered community.
Reminiscent of a temple space, it houses the Blessed Sacrament. It rests on a disc of glass engraved with a circle of thorns – part of the logo of this religious order. The maple plinth contains the sanctuary light, which shines through a stain glass panel. This motif is continued in the wall panel behind the tabernacle, which is clothed in glass inscribed with beech tree branches. The nursing home is set in beautiful parkland full of mature trees. The long life and dignity of these trees reflect the long lives and experience of the people who come to live and be cared for in Carrigoran House.

"it has a constant encouraging impact on the community
as we go to chapel"

Jacobs Ladder  2010
Glass, porcelain
The Library, Jesuit residence, Limerick
Commissioned to commemorate 150 years of Jesuit education in Limerick.

Based on the Genesis story of Jacob’s dream the glass ladder is an ethereal connection between Heaven and Earth, rooted in the ground but disappearing Heavenwards. The porcelain pillar is Jacob’s pillow, which he set up as a monument or marker of the place. The pillar is also the school, an earthbound solid foundation stone, with a spiritual connection, for the lives of those who attend it.
Familiar Jesuit iconography is incorporated into the work. The letters IHS are repeated along the side of the ladder forming a timeline. The imagery of the angelic sunbursts are derived from the Jesuit seal.
This work marks a moment in the history of the Jesuit presence in Limerick and emphasizes the link between earthly and heavenly concerns that is so much a part of the Jesuit ethos.

"frequently admired by visitors, and continues to provide a
prayerful background to our lives"

Brigid's Cloaks  2011
98cms x130cms
Textile

Brigid, known in Ireland as a Celtic goddess and more recently as Saint Brigid, has many stories associated with her. One was that she was able to expand her cloak to cover enough land to build her first monastery.

These Brigid cloaks are inspired by this strong feminine presence which ushers in the Spring on the 1st day of February.

They illustrate her association with water and fire – for healing, smithcraft and hospitality.

Appliqued from a variety of materials these textiles pieces are stiched and quilted into vibrant wall hangings.