E Ryan O'Shaughnessy

The rationale behind these most recent paintings and sculptural pieces aim to question the subject of global consumption of goods and the human quest to continue to find their true self in the “object of desire” which is believed to “complete” and bring us all to a global state of unity.

The work questions the consumerism value of the singular object, and our boundless desire to possess. How we pursue only what’s new and ‘the now’, in a global culture of consistent disposal.

Reviewing the historical archives and theories of capitalism on a global level, the works analysis is grounded in the framework of Karl Marx and the “Fetishism of the Commodities”. It questions the real value of the handmade versus the modern production of mass goods, and questions what its real value is. How this cohesive destruction of consumerism and manmade materials has exhausted all our natural resources, leading to energy crisis, and climate change, pollution and the destruction of the planet we inhabit, World’s scientists call the sixth stage of evolution, the Anthropocene Epoch.

Studied degree in fine arts at Crawford College Cork Ireland.
Professional Masters in Education, from MTU & UCC Cork.

Currently a practising art, craft and design teacher.

Have exhibited in a number of environmental art exhibitions throughout Ireland.