'Solas Ómra II’, oak and resin vessel by Kathleen Walsh

Kathleen Walsh is an Irish woodworking artist who redefines the boundaries of nature-inspired design. The 'Solas Ómra II' vase is crafted from oak and resin, blending traditional and modern materials to create elegant vessels for interior spaces. Walsh’s work has been exhibited in several locations worldwide and form part of private and public collections.

The base of the vessel is expertly crafted from oak. The woodturning process employed by Walsh accentuates the graining of the wood as well as the beautiful knots within it. The edge of the oak joins with a translucent amber resin while the upper part of the piece is crafted from black and amber resin. The pop of colour and interplay of light which constantly alters the vessel's appearance, invites the observer to explore the well-thought-through balance between tradition and modernity.

The vessel is crafted using the very time consuming ‘twice turned’ method. Firstly, utilising a lathe, the wood is shaped to the general shape of the final vessel. After drying or stabilising for weeks or months, the wood is combined with resin and turned again. The complex technique requires patience, skill and very fine attention to detail, all embodied in this outstanding vessel by Walsh.

On the underside the vessel is marked with Walsh’s logo.

Kathleen Walsh’s creations, such as this stunning vessel, transcend their utilitarian roots to become captivating works of art that are as timeless as they are modern.