Art Residency Reflection

Just over a month after I moved out of my studio at Abbey Road Studio, Athlone where I held a residency from October 2024 -June 2025, some reflections on what I ‘did’ during this time…. I put this together for my cv. Right now I am looking for new work opportunities.

natural colour samples from a community group workshop

Artist & Creative Lead (Textiles, Space & Community)

Abbey Road Studio, Athlone | Residency | October 2024 -June 2025

The architect or fashion designer is not here to serve as a robot for the corporate machine - but then what?

I explore processes that integrate stewardship of the earth and collective care — using slow fashion, natural colour, local materials and community-owned land & architecture to use design as a tool for stewardship — not extraction.

• Conducted a short research collaboration with Coole Eco Community to document their model of collective land ownership with the Atlas of Ownership, and advised on transitioning from private (freehold) ownership to a more suitable model of community ownership..

• Provided creative direction and strategic input to the Connaught Street Community on a funding bid to transfer derelict council-owned buildings into community ownership.

• Led a Slow Fashion photoshoot titled Narnia – Equinox in March 2025. I provided creative direction for a collaborative photo series on slow fashion and seasonal transition, designing visual themes and guiding the aesthetic in partnership with a local photography collective

• Co-facilitated children's costume workshops with Aoife Doolan, using recycled fabrics to create garden-inspired designs. The work was showcased in a fashion show at Athlone Castle for Cruinniú na nÓg, Ireland’s national day of free creative activities for young people.

• Led ‘Introduction to Natural Colour’ workshops at Abbey Road Art Studios with community groups and the general public.

• Launched the HABITAT podcast, exploring themes of space, belonging, and creative practice.