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Floral Art … Joan Toase
All Creation Rejoices
The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Psalm 19:1
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The windowsill flowers in the Parish Room which were created by Mrs Joan Toase are a reflection of the bounty found in the natural world. Using found material, garden herbs and flowers, Joan has designed these four displays as a reflection of our place in the hills and waysides around Kilbroney.
I have had a life-long interest in fibres and colours, inspired by my mother teaching me embroidery.
When I was very young. I used to spend summer holidays on my aunt’s farm in the West of Ireland where I discovered making pictures with the fleece I’d combed from the sheepskin rugs being cured in the yard.
I now spin wool and silk, weave, embroider, and make Carriackmacross lace.
Title of work
THE GIFTS OF BRONAGH
MEDIUM: MIXED MEDIA, FELT AND EMBORIDERY,
DIMENSIONS LENGTH 11.5 INCHES HEIGHT 4 INCHES WIDTH 8.5 INCHES
My picture is inspired by the stories of Saint Bronagh my father used to tell us as we were growing up. We spent our Sundays in Kilbroney walking the hills. I have focused on the gifts Saint Bronagh left us which enrich life to this day.
We have the well. The water represents both the well and the Lough surrounded by the Mournes and the Cooleys.
The Bell which was found inside a tree, I tried to convey an old tree covered by centuries of life. The bell was sounded to warn sailors and fishermen of impending storms, and is indeed treasured today as it was then.
The eyes represent the healing given to those with eye problems by the water from Bronagh’s well.
