Crosshaven-based ceramic artist and designer Martha Cashman takes her inspiration from the lost traditions of rural Ireland, and channels these influences into the construction of finely crafted, decorative kitchen utensils made from delicate paper porcelain, woven wire, carved birch and ash wood.
In doing so, she pays homage to the capacity of her farming family and members of their wider rural community to live and work in harmony with the seasons and the landscape in which they dwelt. Last month, Cashman was presented with an Essence of Ireland award by the Craft Council of Ireland for her delicately beautiful sculptural ceramics. This award is intended to honour creative endeavours that are Irish and connect us to our specific heritage, as is certainly the case with her lovely Memories of Rose Cottage(above). Cashman's work is available from art galleries in and around her native Cork, and prices start at €150. See www.marthacashman.com or tel: 087-2606999.