Elva

The island's clear stance

Ireland

 

I'm Elva!

I come from County Kerry on the west coast of Ireland. I grew up in an old house with my parents, four siblings, and my grandparents. It was cramped, noisy, and always bustling. My grandfather used to work with wool, and even though the business was long gone, the old equipment was still in the shed. We played there as children while cooking, discussing, and arguing went on in the house.

In my early twenties, I trained in hospitality. I wanted to get out, but not too far from what I knew. Through a contact, I ended up in a small hotel in the Black Forest for a season. Originally, only a few months were planned. I worked in service, long days, little breaks. But I realized that the structure suited me.

What kept me there was the environment. The forest, the weather, the peace after work. It doesn't directly remind me of Ireland, but it feels similar. Less wind, more order, but the same closeness to nature. Months turned into years. Today, I still work at the same establishment. I'm no longer just here for a season. I consciously decided to stay.

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The image shows a connection between Irish heritage and elements of the Black Forest. The red hair and freckles clearly refer to the Celtic lineage and family belonging. The open, wavy hair emphasizes a natural, unconstrained appearance. The red pompoms in jewelry and accessories pick up this color and set conscious accents, which are also found in traditional Black Forest costumes. The embroideries and materials take up the craft tradition of both regions and bring them together in a clear, contemporary form.

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