Breon O’Casey was born in London the son of Irish playwright Sean O’Casey, and his Celtic roots remained of importance to him as did his father’s artistic leanings and encouragement.

In St Ives, O’Casey apprenticed for Barbara Hepworth and Denis Mitchell who taught him the skill and perfectionism that allowed him to become an exceptional craftsman; however he did not focus on his own sculpture until he reached the age of 70, having previously concentrated on painting, printmaking and jewellery. The sculpture evolved from his jewellery into small silver animals. The discovery of wax, which he preferred to plaster and clay, allowed him to cast in bronze and become more ambitious with the sculptural works.

O’Casey’s work is characterised by simple forms and lines and a very personal set of imagery. Birds, animals and human figures are pared down to their very essence, giving them a primitive and mystical presence. O’Casey’s ability to apply himself so successfully to such a wide range of materials and making processes was an unusual talent and latterly he was afforded the luxury of having small separate studios for each discipline.

Breon O’Casey’s artistic education began at the progressive Dartington Hall School which he described as “a Utopian community which combined the working of the land with the life of the spirit through the arts.” He was taught by Naum Slutzky, former head of metalwork at the Bauhaus, and the first of several mentors to demand precision and total dedication.

The intense and prolific body of sculpture he created over a short period highlights O’Casey’s ability to successfully master a new medium whilst still exploring his central themes of figuration and abstraction.