Bord na mona Lisa…….peat briquette wrapped in gold leaf effect

• An exquisite sculpture that pays homage to Ireland’s rich heritage and the iconic Mona Lisa.
• Core of the sculpture is a peat briquette, a symbol of Ireland’s natural resources and tradition.
• Peat briquette is meticulously wrapped in a gold leaf effect, radiating a warm, golden glow.
• Juxtaposition of the humble peat and luxurious gold leaf, a commentary on the mundane and the extravagant.
• A conversation starter, a statement piece, and a tribute to Irish heritage.
• Embodies transformation, turning the ordinary into extraordinary, much like Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Perfect for any space that could use a touch of elegance and a bridge between the past and present.
• More than just a sculpture, a piece of art that tells a story of transformation, heritage, and timeless allure.
• The letters ‘B’, ‘N’, and ‘M’ are visibly etched onto one side of the sculpture, standing for ‘Bord na Móna’, the Irish peat harvesting company, signifying the origin and the essence of the primary material used in this extraordinary piece of art.
• Embrace the enigma, celebrate the heritage, and transform your space with “Bord na Mona Lisa.”

Stephen Costello — Bog Oak Sculptor (Artist Statement)

I am captivated by the allure of bog oak, a material steeped in history and mystery. It is a humbling thought to consider that our ancient ancestors, living when this wood was part of a thriving forest, were motivated by the same fears, needs, hopes, and dreams that drive us today. My creative process is guided by the natural shape of the wood; I never feel compelled to impose my vision on any piece. Instead, each sculpture emerges from a collaboration between myself and the piece of bog oak.

Often, pieces of wood will sit in my studio for months, their true nature concealed, until one day, the image they are destined to become reveals itself to me. I am drawn to explore images that are as ancient as the wood itself, yet still resonate in our modern world and have found their way into our collective mythology. My work is a reflection on the struggles and hardships endured by humankind, our resilience and determination to survive, and the awe-inspiring creations we bring into existence to help make sense of it all.