Back To The Beginning

Wow — that takes me back. 1992, St Patrick’s Grammar in Armagh.

It was about 16.30, I was in the art department with a friend, throwing a few pots. Funny how moments like that stay with you.

I don’t think I’ve changed all that much, the work keeps evolving, just as I have, for good and for bad haha, but never really sitting still…

Along the way, I’ve been lucky to have some amazing people around me (in my little world of making) I think of Deirdre McCormick, Fidd, Alison Britton, Emmanuel Cooper, Rona O’Reilly, people who’ve had a profound influence on my life, in challenging me, my work, and the way I think about it.

That’s not to mention the constant encouragement of my mum, my whole family in fact, Emma, Daithí, Darren, Sean and wee Brian 😉 - and so many friends AND customers, who’ve helped and supported me along the way!

I’m reminded of something Maya Angelou once said when she talked about facing intimidating moments in her life, like stepping onto a stage or into an important meeting…

“I bring everyone who has ever been kind to me with me — Black, White, Asian, Spanish speaking, Native American, gay, straight, everybody. I say, come on with me, and go on the stage, come with me, I need you now… I can feel them.”

Remembering those people, she said, gave her confidence and kept her grounded, a reminder that she never walks alone.

Thank you for your constant support. Stephen