Designer Spotlight: Niamh Barry

  • Designer Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Niamh Barry is a distinguished Irish artist and designer celebrated for her innovative light fixtures that seamlessly fuse exceptional craftsmanship with a deep appreciation for materials like copper and glass.


With a background in both fine arts and design, Barry’s artistic journey is rooted in a lifelong fascination with the natural world. Her creations draw inspiration from organic forms and the intricate patterns found in nature, emphasizing the dynamic interplay of light and shadow.


Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), This Is What I Like #1, copper and glass light fixture, 2013, 48″ x 55″.
Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), This Is What I Like #1, copper and glass light fixture, 2013, 48″ x 55″.
Sold: $50,400

Barry’s work is characterized by its ability to evoke emotions and create immersive atmospheres, transforming functional objects into stunning focal points. Each piece reflects her meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to quality, showcasing her skillful blend of traditional techniques with contemporary design principles. This unique approach has garnered her significant acclaim within the design community, leading to numerous exhibitions and collaborations.

Her work not only serves a practical purpose but also invites viewers to engage with the transformative power of light, making her fixtures an essential component of modern interior design. With a growing portfolio of work and a reputation for excellence, Barry continues to push the boundaries of design, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the art and lighting design world.


Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), <em>Themes and Variations</em>, copper and glass hanging light fixture, 94″ x 12″.<br><b>Sold: $15,120</b>
Niamh Barry (Irish, b. 1968), Themes and Variations, copper and glass hanging light fixture, 94″ x 12″.
Sold: $15,120

Clars is thrilled to have featured one of Barry’s light fixtures in our October 18th auction, titled This Is What I Like #1, a copper and glass light fixture from 2013, measuring 48″ x 55″. The competitive bidding — both online and via phone — resulted in the piece selling for an impressive $50,400, well above its estimated value of $4,000–$6,000. This clearly reflects the strong demand for her work in the collectible market, and Clars is proud to represent her creations. Its new home will be in a Contemporary Modern mansion in California.

Sources:
Surface Magazine
incollect
D5 Magazine
Niamh Barry

Read More

Fine Curiosities: The Estate of Eddi Van Auken

For over 30 years Eddi acquired, researched, and catalogued antique walking sticks from around the world.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Property from the Collection of Lila Mae Azad

This April we are honored to present the collection of Lila Mae Azad — a woman whose devotion to the arts lives on through her legacy.

  • Estate Spotlight
  • Stories & News

Abstract & Rooted in Tradition — Seasons Page

The contemporary Asian section of our April 18th auction will feature important work by Chuang Che, a Chinese-American abstract artist.

  • Asian Art
  • Stories & News

Effortless Sophistication in Motion

Our Modern Design section of the April 18th auction will feature a sculptural Alvar Aalto bentwood tea trolley.

  • Design
  • Stories & News

Sculptural, Iconic, and Effortlessly Modern

This April 18th we will offer pair of Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen Swan chairs — sculptural, iconic, and effortlessly modern.

  • Design
  • Stories & News

Imperial Elegance at Auction

This April, we will offer an elegant 18th-century Qing dynasty imperial yellow satin brocade robe, chuba with gold dragon patterns.

  • Asian Art
  • Stories & News