Meet the Maker

Published on October 05, 2026

There is something wonderfully special about noticing the things that others might walk straight past. A tiny wildflower growing in a meadow. Lichen clinging to the branch of a hawthorn. The delicate structure of a native plant that changes almost imperceptibly with the seasons. These small details are easy to overlook, yet they tell a story about the landscape around us, the biodiversity it supports and the relationship we have with the natural world. For Leitrim artist and designer Anna-Marie O’Rourke, these quiet details have been a source of fascination throughout her life. Now, through her first collection, Field Studies, she is bringing that fascination to life through a beautiful range of original botanical artwork, fine art Giclée prints, cards and linen textile pieces. Created from original pen and ink drawings made from life in the meadow at Anna-Marie’s home in Leitrim, Field Studies is a deeply personal collection rooted in place, observation and a love of Ireland’s native flora. A collection inspired by home Anna-Marie was born and raised in Leitrim, and the landscape of the county continues to play an important role in both her life and her work. From her small studio, overlooking Sliabh an Iarainn, she creates artwork inspired by the natural world immediately around her. Her connection to biodiversity began long before Field Studies was conceived. Anna-Marie’s parents came from small, low-intensity farming backgrounds in Leitrim, where farming traditions had been passed down through generations. The landscapes associated with these traditional methods of farming provided space for a rich variety of plants and wildlife, and growing up with that environment helped to shape Anna-Marie’s appreciation of biodiversity and the ways in which human activity can influence the natural world. It is a perspective that can be seen throughout her work. Rather than focusing on the grand or dramatic elements of the landscape, Anna-Marie is drawn to the smaller details. The plants growing quietly in a meadow. The textures and forms found in native species. The lichen that settles on a hawthorn. The natural shapes that might otherwise remain unnoticed. Through Field Studies, these often-overlooked elements are given the attention they deserve. From meadow to paper The collection began with a series of original pen and ink drawings created from plants growing in the meadow at Anna-Marie’s home. Working from life allows her to observe each plant closely, capturing its distinctive structure and character. The resulting drawings retain a sense of simplicity and delicacy, while also reflecting the careful observation that went into creating them. From these original drawings, Anna-Marie has developed a small collection of fine art Giclée prints, cards and linen textile pieces, alongside her original botanical prints. The collection offers different ways to bring a little piece of the Leitrim landscape into the home, whether through a carefully chosen piece of original artwork, a fine art print or a beautifully considered textile. There is also something particularly meaningful about the fact that the work begins with plants growing close to Anna-Marie’s own home. These are not simply generic botanical illustrations. They are observations of the living landscape around her, translated into artwork through time, patience and close attention. Art with a sense of place At the heart of Field Studies is a desire to encourage a greater sense of empathy with nature and to draw attention to local biodiversity. In a world where we can easily become disconnected from the landscapes around us, Anna-Marie’s work invites us to slow down and look more closely. The collection celebrates the beauty that exists in the familiar. It reminds us that biodiversity is not only found in remote or untouched places. It can exist in meadows, hedgerows, gardens and fields, often in forms that we might barely notice unless we take the time to look. For Anna-Marie, this relationship with nature is both personal and purposeful. Her work reflects a lifelong appreciation of the Leitrim landscape, while also encouraging people to think about the importance of protecting the diversity that exists within it. Creating with sustainability in mind Alongside her focus on biodiversity, Anna-Marie is committed to creating work with as little environmental impact as possible. Where possible, she chooses recycled, recyclable or compostable packaging and materials. She also works with quality suppliers local to her, reflecting her belief in supporting other local businesses. This approach is an important part of the story behind Field Studies. The collection is not simply inspired by nature. It has also been developed with consideration for how the pieces are made, packaged and brought to customers. For anyone looking for artwork that is proudly Irish, locally created and made with sustainability in mind, the collection offers something particularly special. An Irish artist with a lifelong connection to making Anna-Marie’s artistic practice is supported by a strong background in both design and education. She studied for a BA in Textile Design (Hons) at GMIT in Galway before completing a Higher Diploma in Art Education for Teachers at LSAD in Limerick. She has previously worked as an arts manager and art teacher, experiences that have contributed to her understanding of creativity, design and the importance of making art accessible and meaningful. Today, she works independently from her studio in Leitrim, developing her own artistic practice while building her small business around the values that matter to her. Field Studies represents an exciting new chapter in that journey. Thoughtful Irish gifts for every occasion There is a particular pleasure in giving someone a gift that has a story behind it. For Christmas, a birthday, engagement, wedding, new home or simply as a thoughtful gesture, botanical artwork can bring something timeless and personal into a home. Anna-Marie’s collection offers the opportunity to give something that is not only beautifully designed, but also connected to a real place and a real landscape. For someone who loves nature, Irish design, art or beautifully made homeware, a piece from Field Studies could make a meaningful gift. The smaller pieces in the collection also provide a lovely way to share Anna-Marie’s work with friends and family. And because each piece originates from her own observations of the Leitrim landscape, there is a story behind the artwork that goes beyond its visual appeal. Celebrating small beginnings Field Studies is Anna-Marie’s first small collection, and there is something lovely about discovering an artist at the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Behind the collection is a combination of artistic experience, a deep connection to place and a genuine interest in the natural world. From the meadow outside her home to her studio overlooking Sliabh an Iarainn, Anna-Marie’s work is firmly rooted in Leitrim. It is an expression of the landscape she knows and loves, and of her belief that the smaller details of nature are worth noticing and celebrating. In choosing to create locally, work with local suppliers and consider the environmental impact of her materials and packaging, she is also building a business that reflects those values. For Anna-Marie, supporting local matters. And by choosing to support her small business, customers are helping an Irish artist and designer continue to develop her work from her studio in Leitrim. Discover Field Studies If you are looking for an original piece of Irish artwork, a beautiful botanical print or a thoughtful gift with a strong sense of place, Field Studies offers a wonderful introduction to Anna-Marie O’Rourke’s work. Each piece begins with a simple act: taking the time to notice what is growing around us. A meadow. A wild plant. A piece of lichen on a hawthorn. A detail that might otherwise go unseen. Through Field Studies, Anna-Marie has transformed those observations into artwork that celebrates the quiet beauty of Ireland’s native flora and the landscape that has inspired her throughout her life. It is art with a connection to home, created in Leitrim, inspired by Leitrim and made with care. Discover Anna-Marie O’Rourke’s Field Studies collection on Shop In Ireland and find a beautiful, locally made piece to treasure or give as a thoughtful gift. Thank you for supporting Anna-Marie and her small start-up business, and for supporting Irish artists, designers and independent makers.

Published on October 23, 2025

We’re proud to shine a spotlight on one of our talented ShopInIreland.ie Ambassadors, Cian Magill, the creative mind and skilled craftsman behind Magill Woodcraft Ireland. Founded in 2016, Cian’s business brings the beauty of bespoke Irish woodcraft to life, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.   A graduate of GMIT Letterfrack in Furniture Design and Manufacture, Cian gained early experience in high-end furniture making, where he discovered his passion for the endless possibilities of working with wood. This passion guided him towards developing a unique style that celebrates both form and function.   Crafting Ireland’s Story in Wood Specialising in custom furniture and woodturning, Magill Woodcraft Ireland primarily serves the American-Irish market, creating one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the timeless beauty of Irish design. Each piece is carefully made by hand, with an emphasis on quality, sustainability, and individuality. Whether it’s a stunning centrepiece for a home or a bespoke gift, every creation tells its own story through the natural character of the wood.   Creativity in the Blood Creativity runs deep in Cian’s family. Growing up with self-employed, artistic parents gave him both the inspiration and the determination to carve his own path. His background in the commercial art and film industry further shaped his eye for detail and design, giving him the confidence to combine artistry with entrepreneurship.   It’s this fusion of heritage, education and creativity that makes Magill Woodcraft Ireland stand out. Cian’s work embodies the best of Irish craftsmanship, thoughtful, authentic and beautifully made.   Discover the Art of Irish Woodcraft Every piece from Magill Woodcraft Ireland tells a story, crafted with care, precision and an eye for detail that is uniquely Irish. From elegant custom furniture to beautifully turned wooden objects, Cian’s creations are more than functional, they are works of art that bring warmth, character and craftsmanship into any space.     Proudly Representing Irish Makers   As a ShopInIreland.ie Ambassador, Cian proudly represents Irish craftsmanship at its finest. His work is a testament to the talent, dedication and creativity that make Ireland’s maker community so special. Whether you’re searching for a meaningful gift, a custom piece for your home or simply want to support local artisans, Magill Woodcraft Ireland is a perfect example of why buying Irish truly matters.

Published on May 02, 2024

Uhooooo I'm Jojo from Creations4U. I create fun personalised gifts, for you, your family, your kids teacher, your granny and even your dog!     This all started when I had too much pandemic down time and my creativity just bubbled over. Continuously making items for friends and family as a graphic designer I had the skills and the know how to create these fun quirky personalised gifts, everyone was loving them and constantly telling me you should sell them, they're fab!  So for once I took their advice and did just that.   Starting with one or two personalised frames and look at me now, my side hussle is my day job and I love it. So lucky to be able to be part of peoples celebrations, it feels like a privilege. I'm always on the lookout for a fun new gift idea or tagline, so be careful if we're chatting....you could end up as my next product!     All my items are created by me, printed or made by me, packed by me and brought to the delivery depot....by me, I really am a one girl band so by supporting a small business like me you let one Dublin girl now living in Wicklow (yes I followed the fella!) live out her dream of being her own boss and creating lovely things.

Published on April 03, 2024

Meet Eddie Byrne, the creative force behind Eddie's Glass Studio. From his home in Ireland, Eddie has been crafting handmade glass gifts since the early days of this website. At Eddie's Glass Studio, you'll find an array of treasures, from charming home decor pieces to delicate suncatchers and elegant jewellery. Among his best sellers are the pocket angels and hearts, perfect for showing a loved one you're thinking of them. And let's not forget about those captivating suncatchers that add a touch of magic to any space. Looking ahead, Eddie dreams of growing his studio and becoming a household name for glass art in Ireland. His ambition is clear, and his dedication to his craft shines through in every piece he creates.   Eddie attributes much of his success to the online platform. It's affordable, supportive, and has a thriving community of sellers in Ireland. For Eddie, it's more than just a marketplace – it's a lifeline that has helped him reach customers around the world.   In a world of mass-produced goods, Eddie's Glass Studio stands out as a beacon of authenticity and craftsmanship. Each piece tells a story of passion and dedication, bringing joy to those who welcome them into their homes. So, whether you're looking to add a little sparkle to your life or searching for the perfect gift, consider Eddie's Glass Studio. With Eddie's talent and dedication, you're sure to find something special that brings a smile to your face.