Did coming from a creative household help you in your craft?
I grew up in a family of seven children. We were always encouraged to be curious with an "anything is possible" attitude. I tried everything: sewing, cooking, making sugan stools, rugs, cross-stich. I am sure this helped my understanding of material and process.
What was your first introduction to woodwork?
As a small boy, I always looked forward to visiting my grandfather’s and father’s workshops. They were wonderful places to showcase creativity – everything from windows, doors, staircases and formwork were created from wood.
©Francis Morrin
What is special about the material you work with?
As a child I planted trees with my father and went on family walks in ancient forests. What draws me to wood is that it's a living organism. To know the material, you must start at the source, seeing the trees growing from seed into wonderful structures.
Can you tell me about a memorable moment in your professional life?
In 2015, I was the first living person in the history of the National Museum of Ireland, Decorative Arts and History, to have a retrospective exhibition. The exhibition was curated by Dr Jennifer Goff and was extended for over two years, closing in January 2017.