Irish Hands
The Tradition of Beautiful Crafts
Description:... For centuries, the people of Ireland have been creating crafts - knitted sweaters, delicate lace, sturdy pottery, and fragile crystal - of extraordinary elegance and beauty. Now, internationally known fashion and home furnishings designer Sybil Connolly takes you into the studios and workshops of Ireland's most talented craftspeople. Set against the majestic landscape of Ireland and accompanied by more than 250 full-color photographs, Irish Hands explores the world of these master artisans. Among those who carry on Ireland's rich crafts tradition are: Tommy Daly of Celtic Weave China, who braids miniature clay baskets and boxes, decorating them with delicate porcelain flowers. Tarlach de Blacam of the Aran Islands, who encouraged eight local knitters to make traditional fisherman's sweaters for the tourist trade, giving rise to an industry that now exports more than thirty thousand sweaters annually. Helena Ruuth, with her exquisite multicolored shawls, tapestries, and wall hangings that have graced embassies, parliaments, and homes throughout the world. Paddy and Juliet Berridge, whose Wexford farm produces some of Ireland's most delicious cheeses. Dr. Muriel McCarthy, Keeper of Marsh's Library in Dublin, where the art of bookbinding preserves the nation's priceless cultural artifacts. Hugh O'Neill, who wades into the salty river near Connemara to cut and gather reeds for roofing Ireland's traditional thatched cottages. Sybil Connolly's detailed historical perspectives and loving descriptions of Ireland's countryside are included with interviews with the glassblowers, lacemakers, weavers, metalsmiths, saddlemakers, knitters, and potters who keep these crafts alive. Through their voices, and by their Irish hands, the proud face of Irish history is preserved. -- from dust jacket.
Show description