In Irish tradition the first of February is St. Brigid’s day, the first day of spring, the day St. Brigid, Ireland’s foremost female saint and the Christian version of the great and universal Goddess, was remembered and celebrated. Crosses made from rushes or straw were hung in the home, usually over the door to ward off evil, and protect the house, celebrate renewal and new growth in spring and pray for a good harvest.
Helena discovered and embraced craft of basketry in winter of 2013, and since worked with masters of craft in Ireland. She combines traditional and contemporary approach to create
vessels that serve their purpose well. Helena grows her own willow on her families land that she uses to create all of
her projects. She also uses local Inishowen willow from grower and artist Brendan Farren as well as Somerset willow from the Musgrove family.