Ballin Temple is surrounded by woods and we have been drawn in to the life of trees. They connect us to the world around, provide food and habitat for us and other creatures in the neighbourhood, and offer inspiration.
Richard Butler has pursued wood craft since a young teenager. His early projects included renovation of Granny's ottoman and repair of household joinery to a remarkably high standard. He expanded is skills at secondary school excelling in carpentry and went on to professional training at Atlantic Technical University, graduating with an honours BSc in Furniture Design.
He continues to pursue his craft here at Ballin Temple, creating unique pieces of furniture and marquetry as well as undertaking private commissions. See more on Instagram or reach out to him here.
Rooted in the Future is an example of his work. It is a bespoke piece evoking the connections between nature and humanity and reflecting the encompassing role of trees in our world, which is a submission for Eigse, The Carlow Arts Festival.
Richard was selected for the Michael Angelo Foundation's Homo Faber Fellowship from September 2023 to May 2024 when he exhibited at Cromwell Place Gallery in London at the Todays Masters Meet Tomorrow's Talents exhibition. His cabinet, created with the guidance of Master Craftsman Stephen O'Briain, offers enchanting modern design combined with practical touches. The cabinet will sit beautifully in any reception or living room while offering a discrete space for a writing desk, with pull-out leather table, or drinks storage, or a personal office space.