The Story Behind Kylemore Abbey Pottery
Kylemore Abbey Pottery is more than a souvenir- it's a craft rooted in place, tradition, and community. Every piece is shaped by hand in the Kylemore studio, capturing the natural beauty of Connemara and the enduring spirit of the Benedictine community.
The pottery studio was founded in 1973 by the Benedictine nuns and began with Sr. Agatha Martin, a former boarder of Kylemore Abbey School, who trained at Youghal Pottery in County Cork. Sr. Agatha returned to Kylemore from her job as a nurse in Temple Street Children's Hospital, and began producing simple glazed pottery in shades of blue, green, amber, and brown. Sr. Aidan, Sr. Josephine, and Sr. Marie Bernard soon joined her, and what started out as a simple craft quickly developed into a unique artistic history.
Explore two of our most treasured collections- the Fuchsia and Reflections range, and learn how the surrounding landscape, memories, and local flora influence our pottery today.
The Fuchsia Range- A Tradition in Bloom
The wild fuchsia flower known in Gaelic as “Deóra Dé, Tears of God” grows in abundance along the winding roadside of Connemara, with its vibrant reds and purples being woven into the western landscape. Fuchsia, which was first introduced by Victorian gardeners, is now widely grown in hedgerows and was even used to divide farmland.
This range was created when the Sisters turned to nature for inspiration and their confidence grew. They hand-painted delicate fuchsia, harebell, and heather places over a soft grey speckled glaze, turning functional household pieces into something deeply rooted in place.
Featured Range: Fuchsia
Hand-decorated with brush and sponge, then finished with a high-gloss transparent glaze, the Fuchsia Range is still one of our most recognisable designs. Skilled potters like Gemma Coyne are continuing the tradition today, throwing and decorating each piece with attention to detail.
The Reflections Range- Inspired by Stillness and Structure
To mark 50 years of pottery at Kylemore, the Reflections Range was designed by artist and past pupil Gemma Coyne. Looking out over the still waters of Pollacappul Lake, Gemma was inspired by the contrast between the lake's gentle blues and the Abbey's structured silhouette, which shifts depending on the weather and memories.
Inspired by her time as a student, Gemma designed a collection that blends tradition with modern elegance. On darker days, the lake turns to a deep blue-grey- tones that now colour each piece in this contemporary collection.
Featured Range: Reflections
As timeless as its inspiration, this range, which was hand-thrown and polished in gentle, gloomy glazes, captures the calm of the lake and the everlasting presence of Kylemore Abbey.
From Kylemore Abbey to Your Table
Every piece of Kylemore Pottery carries a story- of place, of people, and handcraft passed down through generations. These ranges reflect the beauty of tradition in every tiny detail, whether inspired by the vivid bloom of fuchsia or the serene reflection of the Abbey itself.