Helena Brennan

For over 60 years, pioneer potter Helena Brennan has made hand-thrown porcelain and stoneware in Ireland. Following an apprenticeship with David Leach in 1964, she set up the first studio producing high-fired ceramics in Ireland with her husband Peter.

Q&A

Artist Statement

Helena is an honorary member of the International Academy of Ceramics. Her work resides in many private, national and international collections, including The Imperial Family of Japan.

What craft do you work with?

Ceramics glazed with ash and oxides from trees surrounding her studio, which are then fired to 1270 centigrade in a self-built kiln.

What inspires you to work with this craft?

Inspired by local flora and fauna, Helena’s works are thrown sculptural pieces made for indoor and outdoor installation

How do you start your creative process?

“Using native materials, my pottery directly references the surroundings in which it is were made. This also inspires a highly personal approach towards texture and colour. When I make pots, I’m throwing, cutting and glazing – so that this mark leaves a trace of the vessel’s making.”

How would you best describe your workspace and what tools could you not do without?

Pieces are glazed with ash and oxides from trees surrounding her studio, which are then fired to 1270 centigrade in a self-built kiln.