Hi Everyone. I hope you are keeping well this week. So here we are at the final stop of my Meet the Makers roadtrip. After a wonderful visit with Mucros Weavers in Kerry, it was time to head over the border into County Cork to meet Jamie at Wild Goose Studio in Kinsale at the southern end of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
Wild Goose Studio
The Wild Goose story began in 1970 when artists Brian Scott-McCarthy and Kathleen Smyth founded the studio. They established a collective of artists and craftspeople to create their beautiful sculptures and artifacts taking inspiration from Ireland’s rich Celtic heritage. I sat down with Jamie to find out more…..
Wild Goose – Lulu’s Top Picks
1. Celtic Love Cross
Now that you know the inspiration behind the Wild Goose Celtic Love Cross, why not own this very special piece of Irish art or treat someone to a memorable Irish gift. This is an especially popular gift for weddings, engagements or anniversaries. Designed by Irish artist and Wild Goose founder Kathleen Smyth.
2. Bronze Slainte Plaque
My next pick features probably the most oft used Irish word in the world, it being our national toast. Meaning “Good Health”, this beautifully crafted piece is from an original stone carving by renowned Irish letter carver Tom Little.
3. Claddagh Wall Plaque
The iconic Claddagh and it’s enduring message gets the Wild Goose treatment in an original design by Kathleen Smyth and Adam Grabski. The exquisitely detailed hands for friendship, heart for love and crown for loyalty are given an unmistakably ancient Celtic look. A stunning gift for the home.
4. Céad Míle Fáilte
Another iconic and oft quoted Irish phrase-” Cead Mile Failte”-” A hundred thousand welcomes” is beautifully presented in this gorgeous plaque from Wild Goose. Carved by Irish artist Tom Little who hails from a along line of Irish stone masons, the expert craftsmanship is second to none. Greet them “as gaeilge” with this stunning Irish gift.
5. St. Patricks Cross Plaque
My final pick is a wonderful recreation of oldest of Ireland’s high crosses, St. Patrick’s Cross in Carndonagh, County Donegal. The three sections include 3 pilgrims at the bottom, Christ with the Evangelists at the center and an ancient Celtic knot design at the top.
So there’s my top picks from the superb makers at Wild Goose Studio. Check out our full collection of Wild Goose Studio gifts.
Thanks so much for your company. It’s been so great to share the stories of our makers and some beautiful places in Ireland with you.
Take care of yourselves and each other,
Slán go fóill!
Lulu
1 comment
I bought one of their items on my first trip to Ireland-still one of my favorite things that I brought back!