Eily O Connell is well known for conjuring up hybrid treasures, illuminating absurd beauty in all natural forms. Using mans destruction of nature, as inspiration in a bid to illuminate the harm we are doing is a basis for her work. This brings about an eerie and macabre feel to her more avante-garde work.
Nature's brighter side is reflected in her gold and lighter pieces for the everyday wearer. Each piece morphs into a new species through the process of combining natural forms and casting them into metal, adorning them with gemstones, enamel and other curios.
Eily grew up in Donegal on the North West coast of Ireland hence sea themes are evident throughout her work. There are constant references to human manipulation of nature as Eily is concerned with our ecological impact and so tries to highlight important issues through pieces and collections. She has done two residencies to date both studying insects. In 2020 she will travel to Iceland on a residency to study glaciers and then see how she can translate these issues into jewellery.
Eily sources sustainable materials where possible including recycled metals and fair-trade gemstones. All boxing and marketing materials are recycled. All work crafted sourcing the finest materials in her studio which visitors are welcome by appointment in her Bristol based studio and she loves to make you commissioned pieces whatever you budget. All prices reflect this very small-scale local production made from cradle to cradle by the hands of the designer maker.