Áine Dunne / Co. Louth

Áine Dunne is from the Boyne Valley in Ireland. She designs and hand weaves tapestry wall-hangings for both public and private clients. She was first introduced to tapestry weaving by artist Liam O’Broin in 1980. Over the years, she trained with talented artists like Regina Bartsh, Helena Ruuth, Alice Roden, Anne Marie Moroney, and Judith Hoad.

Áine has been a member of the Irish Guild of Weavers Spinners and Dyers since the mid-80s. She completed a commission for the Augustinian Community in Drogheda, to celebrate 700 years in the town. Later, she designed a tapestry at Stephens Green Hotel in Dublin, as part of the O’Callaghan Hotel Group.

Áine is drawn to tapestry weaving for its textures, the yarns, and the endless colour possibilities. Tapestry weaving sparks a sense of comfort for Áine, which she finds hard to describe. Her designs often use symbols and images that invite the viewer into this peaceful state.

Despite the calm in her art, Áine’s inspiration comes from chaos and change. She believes this is part of being human. Weaving helps her reflect on life’s constant shifts and the strength required to adapt.

Áine also finds inspiration in historical references like Coptic weavings, La Dame à la Licorne, and Egyptian ceramics. These timeless sources continue to shape her creative journey and inspire her work.