Greenwood Vessels
Refined movement is a major theme in these Greenwood vessels as they are produced from locally sourced green unseasoned wood. Greenwood being a perfectly imperfect material, distorts as it dries. The challenge is to interpret what the timber will do in advance of the raw material being turned and carved, then work with and manipulate its natural torsion.
The vessels are predicated on an interplay between concept design and the changing nature of the material underhand. They represent a dialogue between artist vision, and creative ability on one side which is counterbalanced with tension, strain and energy stored in the grain structure of the natural medium.
Although initially turned on a lathe this can be difficult to realise as the final form will deviate from circular transforming into a symmetrical oval. This controlled distortion of the green wood becomes an expressive element within the finished vessel and helps bring it to life as a decorative artwork.
From intensely carved pieces to purer forms, these greenwood vessels are designed to announce themselves as aesthetic art objects, where controlled natural symmetry and a fluidity of form give each piece its own exquisite timeless and sculptural identity.
About Ruairi
Ruairi Dennison is an Irish Sculptor/Carver based in the town of Abbeyfeale, which rests on the border of County Limerick and County Kerry in South West Ireland. Regardless of being qualified as a solicitor in his mid-twenties, Ruairi chose to complete a MSc. in Building Conservation and studied classical design and traditional carving techniques. From here he worked throughout Ireland's stately homes, landmark medieval Castles, and Cathedrals, carrying out Restorative carving, and conservation works, all the time engaging his passion for making and building his knowledge of materials and traditional carving techniques.
In 2018 Ruairi opened his own workshop studio in Convent Street, Abbeyfeale and remains based there today. He pursues innovation in creating, utilising making methods from a range of creative art disciplines and serving an international customer base. He focuses primarily on artistic works realised in an ever-widening range of materials, including wood, marble and bronze.
- Sculptors Society of Ireland Professional Membership granted 2022
- Visual Artists Ireland Professional Member granted 2022
- Design and Crafts Council Ireland Professional Membership granted 2024
Commissions
Embracing challenge and being open to accepting commissions is a fundamental principle that underpins Ruairi Dennison's career to date. His public artworks are featured in many publications and his private commissions have travelled worldwide. For Ruairi sculpture is about capturing meaning and ideology, via the physical manifestation of concept. From monumental scale site-specific public sculptures to unique private commissions, his artwork reveals an intuitive relationship with making.
Working with an ever-increasing range of mediums, to include, moulding in cast stone and plaster; Commissions in bronze, carvings in Irish limestone and marbles, and decorative greenwood vessels are all catered for in the Convent Street, workshop studio.
Recent commissions include a series of bespoke side platters in ebonised oak for a Michelin Star restaurant and etched and oxidised steel sculptures for a national primary route. Public bodies community groups and private persons alike are invited to call today. Anonymity is guaranteed when requested.