Arts Thread

My project is called ‘Cuimhneas’ (memory). The Designs are inspired by the book ‘Belonging’ by Catherine Corless and Naomi Linehan. A book detailing the stories of the Tuam Mother & Baby Home victims and survivors. An institution like many others in Ireland, where unwed mothers were incarcerated and their children taken off them against their will. The collection explores nurture and the darkness of the memories of ‘the home babies’ and their Mothers. The fabrics intend to act as an antidote to these horrible memories and heal. Cuimhneas is a collection of blankets, each reflecting the story of individuals mentioned in the book. Blankets are one of the first objects that humans form a bond with. They provide comfort, security and nurture, similar to a mother’s embrace. The ‘Cuimhneas’ collection is intended to be appreciated as blankets and healing objects. The fabrics’ scent, colour and feel have been carefully curated to promote the utmost sense of comfort. The aim is to target the wearer’s inner child and emulate the familiar sense of security. Using carefully selected fibres and natural dyeing makes this collection sustainable, low impact and gentle on the skin. These patterns can be scaled down easily to be made at an industrial level or handwoven as the originals are. All natural dying was done using extracts to ensure exact colour can be recreated effortlessly.

‘Cuimhneas’ (Memory) is a collection of blankets inspired by the book Belonging by Catherine Corless and Naomi Linehan, which details the tragic stories of the Tuam Mother & Baby Home victims and survivors. These institutions in Ireland incarcerated unmarried mothers and took their children against their will. The collection explores both the nurturing and the dark memories of these “home babies” and their mothers, aiming to provide comfort and healing. Blankets, being one of the first objects to provide humans with comfort and security, are designed in this collection to promote a sense of safety and self-care. The materials used—lambswool, merino wool, cashmere, silk, mohair, linen, and organic cotton—are all sustainable, low-impact, and gentle on the skin. Colours are derived from natural dyes inspired by ayurvastra textiles, using sources like nettles, avocado, red cabbage, logwood, and indigo. Essential oils are also incorporated to enhance the sensory experience and promote relaxation. The project is deeply personal, as my uncle came from a Mother & Baby home, and survivors are still fighting for justice today. Catherine Corless’s investigation revealed that many details of these homes, which operated from 1916 to 1998, were hidden. With approximately 60,000 women and children affected and 9,000 children who died, ‘Cuimhneas’ aims to raise awareness of these social and political issues, ensuring these women and children are recognised and honoured.