Materials Matter - Mary O'Brien

This is a short project I shot for the Magnum Photos x Textile Exchange competition; ‘Materials Matter’. It centres around Mary O’Brien, an incredible Irish craftswoman turning scraps of material thrown out by larger businesses into all sorts of beautiful products.

In her own words; "I've always had a needle of some sort in my hand. When I look back, it's 60 years! It's been so rewarding and has always given me huge pleasure. Whether it's making bridesmaids and debs dresses, christening robes, upholstery, curtains, covering lampshades, repairing old lace, doing tapestries, I've loved it all. Truly blessed. It's a gift. I've quilts all over the world. Some baby quilts made 30 years ago are now being used by the next generation. Heirlooms."

Working with textiles has had a formative impact on her life and she still takes pride and joy in every piece she makes. Every tapestry commission, every sock knitted and every pair of jeans repaired. This is why I felt the need to share her story, her life, her legacy, here in 15 pictures.