Collection: Artist: Pat Brennan

PAT BRENNAN ARTIST BIO

I learned my leather craft skills in my hometown of Savannah, GA and in the mid-1970s became one of the owners of Sweetfields Leather Co on River Street. In those early days, River Street retained some of its 18th and 19th century commercial character and supported a community of artists and crafts people. At Sweetfields we created belts, bags and sandals supplying locals and tourists with quality handmade leather work.

In 1990, attracted by the mild climate and beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, my wife and I moved to the Brevard area. I continued to practice leather craft creating bags and other leather goods for my friends in the outdoor community.

An early design of bags, the “Haversack” was carried by soldiers in the Revolutionary and Civil wars. This bag has inspired the bags I make today. Using the centuries old technique of saddle stitching which has a needle on both ends of the thread I create a more durable and unique bag. For a more natural look, I use pieces of bone, antler or wood to enhance the design and as practical elements such as closures. Hand stitching rather than machine stitching takes strength and concentration and adds to the personal quality of the bag.

I create these bags for the pleasure of the purchaser, resting in the knowledge that they will last a lifetime.