Tulipiere Series

Cóilín O’Dubhghaill’s ongoing Tulipiere series uses the multi-spout form of a tulipiere vase as a starting point for an investigation of form and a reflection on the relationship between object and value. Tulipiere are an intriguing example of specialised product design, a celebration of exotic flowers originating in the 17th century Dutch Tulip Mania, a time that parallels more recent economic bubbles. In this work O’Dubhghaill moves away from the suggestion of function, reinterpreting the work in a sculptural form, totems for our time. This work is produced using traditional silversmithing hammer work techniques and TIG welding to join and shape the metal. The series is finished using a combination of traditional patination processes and industrial nickel plating.