James Mary Kelly – Master Goldsmith
James Mary’s interest in jewellery was first sparked on a school trip to the Kilkenny Design Workshops. He was hugely impressed with the metal works on site and soon after, he approached the workshop manager to apply for a job. Later in his career he was offered a goldsmith scholarship to Germany which James Mary says was invaluable to his training.
With the closure of Kilkenny Design Workshops in 1988, James Mary decided to purchase one of the workshops. He has been very successful and the business has prospered. Among his creations are the Liam McCarthy cup, which has had many trips back to Kilkenny since it was created.
Other works have included gifts for Popes and one work in particular that stands out for James was the Tabernacle he made for Armagh Cathedral. James recalls Cardinal Ó Fiaich being very impressed with the creation and suggested that they toast the tabernacle with a drop of Jameson.
Neill Kelly – Goldsmith
Neill found his calling after studying art and craft in Grennen Mill and Limerick College of Art. He decided to follow in his fathers footsteps and went on to complete the DCCI’s Jewellery and Goldsmithing Skills & Design course in 1994.
Simply put, Neill just loves making jewellery and he has worked under exceptional goldsmiths in both Germany and Ireland.
Neill is a valuable member of the JMK team, alongside working on the bench, he enjoys talking to customers. Neill feels very lucky to get to meet people when they are happy – sitting down and talking through their ideas. He just loves to realise their thoughts and ideas into something real and tangible, making something beautiful.
Marie Wilgaard Kelly – Designer & Goldsmith
Marie Wilgaard Kelly joined JMK as a design strategy consultant. With substantial previous goldsmithing and design experience, Marie has been an exceptional addition to the team.
Originally from Copenhagen, Marie completed an academy profession degree in jewellery design, as well as a four year, formally certified, goldsmith’s apprenticeship with Anders Morck. In 2001, after completing her training, Marie moved to Kilkenny, where she has worked as a goldsmith, designing and producing fine jewellery.
Marie’s design inspirations are deeply immersed in her Danish background with sleek modern lines recognised as a feature of Danish design. She also favours a touch of the organic, adding curves and texture to her work.