Emmet Kane

Stove maker

©Francis Morrin

Working with the hands to free the mind

Emmet believes that anything is possible
He uses native timber in his work
He is featured in the collection of the National Museum of Ireland

Emmet Kane comes from five generations of artisans and now works in the space that his grandfather built in 1944, using techniques and equipment which have been used by his forefathers. For example, it was on an old Myford ML8 lathe which his father bought in the 1950s, that Emmet first taught himself to turn wood. Over days and weeks of practice, he slowly built up his skills. He then took a two-year woodcraft course in Carlow Vocational School. With a philosophy that there is no such word as cannot, it is no wonder that he is now nationally and internationally renowned for his striking turned pieces which include distinctive textured surfaces and gold leaf.

Interview

©Francis Morrin

©Francis Morrin

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.
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 is 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.

Emmet Kane is a master artisan: he began his career in 1988 and he started teaching in 1995