As we look forward to Christmas, Pangolin London asked three of our artists how they celebrate the festive period, their highlights from the year so far, and what they are looking forward to in the new year.
Eilis O’Connell was born in Derry, Northern Ireland, and is known for her sumptuous and highly tactile work. She has shown at the Venice, Paris and Sao Paolo Biennales, and is also founder-director of the National Sculpture Factory in Cork, a former member of the Arts Council of Ireland, a member of Aosdána, and a member of the R.H.A. O'Connell's work has attracted numerous prestigious public commissions, including 'Pero's Bridge' in the Bristol docklands, 'Apples and Atoms' at Trinity College Dublin, and 'Sacrificial Anode' at Canary Wharf.
What are you working on currently?
I'm working on new pieces in stone, bronze and Jesmonite for my solo show at Pangolin London opening at the end of March.
What will the new year bring for your work?
Repatriation and conservation of my Biomorphia sculpture series currently on loan to West Dean.
Eilis O'Connell, Flung Blue, 2019, Bolivian Sodalite.
Do you have a career highlight from this year?
Finally installing my sculpture 'Supose an Outcrop " in Sligo last month made during the covid restrictions.
What other artists' work would be on your Christmas list?
Arman Agop, Martin Puryear, Alison Wilding and Diana Copperwhite.
What is your favourite Christmas tradition?
A long walk on Derrynane Beach, then the traditional Christmas swim and the obligatory hot toddy afterwards.
What do your Christmas decorations look like?
Inside: millions of fairy lights and candles. Outside: lights on the pine tree in the garden, my living Christmas tree.
How will you be celebrating Christmas this year?
Dinner with my sisters family, she is a domestic goddess.
Eilis O'Connell, Slope, 2010, Pictured at 'Crucilbe' Exhibition Gloucester Cathedral 2010
What is your favourite Christmas food or beverage?
Spiced beef, a Cork speciality.
Food presents are always welcome – especially home made ones – and luxurious Voya candles.
