"Harbouring memory is a brooch series originally created for my graduate collection in 2015. Made during a time of deep introspection, these sculptural brooches convey the atmosphere felt whilst surrounded by south county Dublin’s historic harbours. Facing redevelopment at the time of their creation, they were made to memorialise and serve as talismans to connect with the past. Due to the efforts of historians and the local community, the long fought battle to preserve Bullock Harbour has been won and the beautiful inlet will remain (for now). Returning to my childhood home for lockdown, and this vista being within my two kilometre radius, I found myself immeasurably comforted by the place once again.
Made of Vitreous Enamel, Copper and Steel, their patterns hone in on rope configurations found at working harbours, seen at increasing levels of inspection. Alternative enamelling techniques are used to reference the ebbs and flows of the tide and the gentle attrition of the manmade cove."
Mark Newman