Connection, Joy, Beauty

Connection - to the Earth, to your deeper self, and to your community

Joy - in the exploration of natural world, in your creative process, and in relationship with others

Beauty - of the web of life, of your inner light, and of those sharing the path with you

Dream Bird Studio is the business of artist Iris Sullivan Daire. . .

A passion for nature, nurture culture, and coaxing color from plants, rock and even a few bugs, are the driving forces behind the work at Dream Bird Studio. It is here that I create my three offerings to the world:

• Naturally dyed textiles that celebrate beauty

• Art Workshops exploring self & the natural world

• Writing and artwork to make sense of it all

The workspace of Dream Bird Studio is surrounded by the beauty and grace of the nature, located near the banks of the mighty Columbia River in Astoria, Oregon. Being tucked into the Coast Range rainforest creates opportunity for relationships with the creatures and plants that live around our home.  For this reason, and many more, a commitment to cultivating right relationship with the land is very important.  For instance, by using plants from my neighborhood I am aware of how my harvest might impact the landscape. When looking out my window I see the water, and the many birds that rely on it for food - knowing that when I dispose of dye baths from the studio I have a responsibility to make sure my work does no harm. My intention is that the work of my hands, in collaboration with the natural world and the other makers of the materials I use, will inspire more connection, joy and beauty in the lives of all.

Sometimes my work feels like meditation or prayer, other times like play. I believe that the energy with which I make something somehow imbues the object with intent.  The hand of the maker is present in the object.