Athenry News & Views Winter 2025

Winter 2025

species such as oak, elm, ash, yew, beech, and sycamore. Occasionally, by order, he works with imported woods like London plane, walnut, or lime — and sometimes even with exceptional materials such as evergreen oak, a rare, dense, and heavy timber. Daniel regularly exhibits his work at craft fairs across Ireland and the UK, including: * Irish Design Works at Ballymaloe House, Cork * Celebration of Craftsmanship and Design in Cheltenham, UK * Numerous Irish trade fairs Examples of his craftsmanship can also be seen locally — two beautiful oak benches at Athenry Church and Athenry Abbey, and a unique lid for the baptismal font in Athenry Church. One stand out piece was a “Collectible Cabinet” made from evergreen oak sourced at Dromoland Castle. Crafted in a classic style, it

sold for €16,000 to a very satisfied customer — a sale that, no doubt, would have had Christy Howley scratching his head in amazement! Daniel’s work is as much art as it is furniture making — a testament to his dedication, artistry, and commitment to preserving and evolving traditional skills. His excellence hasn’t gone unnoticed: Ashford Castle now sends groups of visiting guests, including Americans and other international visitors, to meet Daniel and learn about his craft — a clear vote of confidence from one of Ireland’s most prestigious establishments. Today, Daniel Gill lives in Kiltulla, Athenry, with his wife Aislinn and their children, Logan and Isabelle — continuing a proud tradition of craftsmanship deeply rooted in Athenry’s heritage. ‘Living with beautiful objects is not a luxury, it’s a necessity’