The idea of nature is continuously explored within the work of Breon O’Casey. Through stripping his subject back to mere gestures and simplified lines, his work conjures a charm and calmness which we often forget in our hectic modern day world. With a nod to his family’s Celtic tradition, Deer, is reminiscent of a traditional pagan forest deity alluding to a previous relationship of respect and peace between man and nature. This piece is an exceptional example of the sculptural work of Breon O’Casey.

Breon O’Casey was a significant member of the St. Ives school whose leading figures included Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson and Bernard Leach. He began his working career as an assistant to Denis Mitchell and Barbara Hepworth in St. Ives, whilst setting himself up as a painter, jeweller, weaver, and later sculptor.

Breon O’Casey was born in London the son of Irish dramatist Sean O’Casey, and his Celtic roots remained of importance to him as did his father’s artistic leanings and encouragement. He exhibited widely and his work can be found in many permanent collections including the Tate and the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.