The stunning landscape of Inishowen provides the inspiration for designer and illustrator Eilis Galbraith’s unique printed textiles which she will be showcasing during her trip to Boston Massachusetts this month as part of a joint collaboration between Councils in Donegal and Derry/Strabane.
Eilis Galbraith Designs is one of 15 companies who will take part in this trade mission which is part of the region’s strategy to promote inward investment and provide local businesses access to potential export opportunity.
Eilis Galbraith is a designer and illustrator who specialises in printed textiles – designing and repeating patterns which are digitally printed for use on products including soft home furnishings such as curtains, lampshades and cushions.
Eilis creates surface pattern design led by the importance of illustration and drawing. Her collection is graphic in detail, yet tactile, working in a variety of interior fabrics as well as wallpaper. She works in a variety of fine graphic illustration and varying textures to create bespoke and creative pieces.
Speaking ahead of participating in the Boston trade mission, Eilis Galbraith said:
“My business offers a unique range of hand-drawn, digitally printed designs – printed primarily on 100% Donegal linen for homeware products.
“As I am at the very early stages of start-up, I feel that the trade mission to Boston will give me an invaluable insight into trading internationally in the near future.
“Whilst in the US, I hope to meet with interior designers and create strong working relationships – with the potential of creating bespoke designs for high-end customers, or commercial works such as hotels, including designs for wallpaper, curtains, cushions and so on.
“Country living inspires all of my designs and products – including farming, hunting and forestry – elements which I also believe to be culturally significant to US consumers or businesses. Indeed, there is a large Irish diaspora in Boston, whom I believe would also be able to relate to my designs and products.
“Market research is also a key factor in my decision to join the North West delegation to Boston. Indeed, I feel that as a result of this trip, I will be able to gain a better insight into the textile ranges which are currently trending in the US.
“I really have ambitious plans for the future of my business – not least in terms of expanding my product range and tapping into markets in Ireland, the UK and the US.”
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