My name is Jennifer Hickey, and I have recently joined the Visitor Services Officer Team at the National Museum of Ireland, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo.
I am a porcelain sculptor and have been exhibiting widely across Ireland and internationally for over twenty-five years. I recently moved from Dublin to establish a studio in Louisburgh, Co Mayo and have just returned from Venice, where my work is currently featured in the Homo Faber Biennial exhibition, An Island of Light, on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
Inspired by the archipelago of the Venetian lagoon, Artistic director Es Devlin has created a narrative that unites the work of hundreds of individual craft artists from across the world. By manipulating light through the use of water, mirrors, movement and more Devlin creates a journey that illuminates the world of craftsmanship.
Until 30th September the fourth edition of Homo Faber Biennial brings together over 500 artisans, from over 70 countries.
My sculpture is made from thousands of tiny, wafer thin fired porcelain pieces. These are made by hand working the porcelain to a fine, almost paper thin finish. Texture is then applied before each piece is pierced and then high fired in the kiln. After firing the pieces are then sewn onto a tulle fabric over a porcelain sculptural form.
My piece is being exhibited in the magnificent Palladian Refectory in 'The Feast Of Light'. The Refectory is bisected by a vertical line of light, evoking a sunbeam through a crack in a doorway. This dramatic central feature interacts with a selection of pure white sculptures in various materials including porcelain, glass, textile and paper.
Homo Faber is a cultural movement centred on creative artisans. It was started by The Michelangelo Foundation which is a non -profit organisation that celebrates and preserves master craftmanship. Their mission has the vital support of a growing network of institutions around Europe and further afield who share their vision and values.
It has been an incredible experience to exhibit among Master Artisans from across the world.
Nuacht