About
PHIL McSWEENEY
Artist & Environmental Sculptor
Visual Artists Ireland - Professional Member
I’m Phil McSweeney, an environmental sculptor based in County Kerry, Ireland. I work primarily with willow and natural materials, creating large-scale sculpture rooted in landscape, mythology, wildlife and place.
A fascination with the relationship between people and the natural world shapes my work. I’m interested in the stories we attach to landscapes, the creatures we share them with, and the ancient traditions that continue to influence how we understand our surroundings.
Working by hand with living and natural materials gives the sculptures a physical connection to the places they inhabit. I’m particularly interested in creating work that feels as though it belongs in its environment rather than being placed within it.
Alongside my studio practice, I work with communities, schools, festivals and organisations through collaborative workshops and large-scale projects. These projects allow people to experience the process of making together and to develop their own connection with nature, place and creativity.
PLACE. MATERIAL. STORY.
PLACE
My work begins with the landscape its wildlife, history, mythology and character.
MATERIAL
Willow is central to my practice. Its flexibility, strength and organic form allow me to create structures that feel both physical and alive.
STORY
I use sculpture to explore stories, symbols and relationships between people and the natural world.
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS & FESTIVALS
K-Visual, Killorglin — 2026
Clifden Arts Festival — 2026
Electric Picnic — Installation 2025-2026
Rewild Festival — Installation 2025-2026
Puck Fair, Killorglin — Sculpture 2025
K-Fest, Killorglin — Sculpture 2024
Grilse Gallery, Killorglin — Exhibition
BEYOND THE STUDIO
Alongside my sculpture practice, I work across community arts, theatre and festivals.
I co-founded and facilitate a mixed-ability Youth Theatre in County Kerry, creating opportunities for young people to develop confidence, creativity and performance skills through theatre.
I also design and create festival floats, parade pieces and large-scale installations, often working collaboratively with communities and festival organisers.
Photography: Dave Ryan Media
INTERESTED IN WORKING TOGETHER?
Commissions, installations, workshops and collaborative projects.
Tell me what you're planning and I'll be happy to discuss the possibilities.
GET IN TOUCH