Stopress, CCoI March/April 2008

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

INGA REED RECEIVES CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD 2008 P. 4

YOU'LL NEVER P.24 WALK ALONE

20 Contents News and Reviews P2 P3

P4 P6 P7 P8 P9 Gerr y Murphy (Expo Events Ltd.), Minister Micháel Mar tin, Úna Parsons (Chief Executive of Crafts Council of Ireland), Gerr y Wycherley (Chairperson of Crafts Council of Ireland) and Charlie Kelly (Enterprise Ireland)

Showcase Snapshots Showcase 2008 and Beyond New E-zine Craftsmanship Award Education: FACT Project Magical Garden Feature, Kilkenny Enterprise Programmes Álainn Craft@Arboretum TG4 - Comórtas Ceirde (Craft Competition)

Craft@Bloom

Showcase 2008 and Beyond

Craft Community News

Showcase 2008 was officially opened on the 20th of January, by the Minister of Enterprise, Trade

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and Employment, Micheál Martin, TD. The Minister, who spent almost 3 hours at the show, also presented the Index winners with their awards, toured the show and attended a networking lunch.

“The fact that 9,000 visitors with 2,000 from 30 countries, including the key markets of Britain, NorthAmerica, Europe, Japan and Korea, will attend [Showcase] is a tribute to the talent, skills and dedication of Irish craftspeople. I want to congratulate the Crafts Council of Ireland for ensuring the continued growth of Showcase and to wish all 550 exhibitors every success in the days ahead” said Minister Martin. “Clearly in communities across Ireland people are producing quality goods which have a global demand. In an era of mass produced goods our craftspeople, with the support of the Crafts Council of Ireland, have shown that there is demand for gifts which are unique, innovative and made with that special personal touch.”

Reaction from the media to the show this year was very encouraging - with an estimated increase of 10% in press coverage and an enthusiastic reaction from some of Ireland’s key journalists. “There is a new energy about the event and the people showing there. It’s called confidence and competence and its darned good” said Angela Phelan, Sunday Independent, 20th January, 2008.

Continued on page 3

A Key Date for your Diary Crafts Council of Ireland

Midsummer Masquerade Ball ...a magical extravaganza gathering for Ireland’s crafts community.

Saturday 21st June 2008 - Kilkenny Castle More Details on page 17

Craft NI Conference Donegal Design Directorate Leitrim Design House Irish Arts Blogg New Address Creative Borders...

Opportunities P12 P13 P14

P15 P16 P17

Sculpture in the Parklands Techno Threads exhibition Basket makers Conference RDS Call out EMT Seminar Research Missions Doing Business with Collectors…

Who is your Customer Retailer Programme Showcase Opportunities Ceramic Design and Skills Course Call for Exhibition Proposals Breaking Out Dates for your Diary Masquerade Ball

Advertisements P 16 Advertisements

Exhibitions - NCG P22 P23 P24

Sculpture in the Parklands European Baskets You’ll Never Walk Alone

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

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News and Reviews

Showcase Snapshots 2008

Minister John McGuinness, Ray Power (Castle Arch Pottery) and Úna Parsons (Chief Executive of the Crafts Council of Ireland) pictured at Showcase 2008 in the RDS Dublin

Linda Evans (Sue Ellen from Dallas) pictured with models at the Newbridge Silverware Stand

Jeweller y designer, Inga Reed, winner of the Crafts Council of Ireland Craftsmanship Award with Úna Parsons and Minister John McGuinness

Gerr y Wycherley (Chairperson of Crafts Council of Ireland), Mia Mullen (Jeweller, winner of the Index awards ‘Interiors & Tabletop category)’ and Minister Micháel Mar tin

Deborah Maguire (Director of Yellow House) Irish made childrenswear with Minister Micháel Mar tin TD. Also pictured Meadh Ring (Gift Programme Co-ordinator Cork Enterprise Board) Michael Hanley (West Cork Enterprise Board)

Causeway Enterprise (NI) with their Award for Best Group Stand

All of the Cork Craft Exhibitors pictured with Gerry Wycherley and Minister Micháel Mar tin

Minister Micháel Mar tin and Adam Frew (Ceramicist)

‘Craft Alive’ Stand at Showcase, with demonstrators Kathleen McCormack, Peter Hoare and Elizabeth Bonnar

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News and Reviews

Continued from page 1

Reaction from buyers was equally positive, with 99 % of buyers saying they

found the show worthwhile or very worthwhile. And 93% saying they plan

to return in 2009. And although the show numbers were down very slightly this year (just under 2%) due to a drop in international buyer numbers, the

good news is that the number of home buyers visiting the show was up 176 this year. This increase in buyers from Ireland, was supported anecdotally by

TO EXHIBIT AT SHOWCASE 2009

If you are interested in exhibiting at Showcase 2009 please contact Mary Whelan at the Crafts Council of Ireland (details below).

reports from exhibitors pointing to increases in new orders this year. Re-visit

Please book as soon as possible as allocation of stands takes place over the coming weeks.

day-decreased this year by 27%, which did contribute to a feeling of fewer

To apply for the SOURCE Aisle

numbers - the number of people who visited the show for more than one

buyers in the latter days of the show.This drop is consistent with the drop in numbers of international buyers - who by their nature tend to spend more than one day at the show. It is also partly due to a trend we are seeing across

all Business to Business shows, where fewer buyers from each outlet now visit shows and visits are shorter in duration. While exhibitor order statistics are

not yet in, our initial feedback is that the majority of craft exhibitors felt their orders were the same or higher than last year.

SHOWCASE DEVELOPMENTS 2008 & 2009

If interested in applying for the Source Aisle please also let Mary Whelan know as soon as possible - selection is planned for May and application forms will go to all those interested in late March 2008.

Mary Whelan, Crafts Council of Ireland T: 056 7761804 e-mail: maryw@ccoi.ie

If you exhibited in 2008 and have not yet re-booked for 2009 please contact: Kellie Fitzgibbon immediately to ensure that you are considered in the re-allocation of space.

Kellie Fitzgibbon, Showcase Events Ltd. T: 01 2958185 e-mail: KellieFitzgibbon@expo-events.com

2008 heralded a process of change and development aimed at increasing the number of craft exhibitors at the show, increasing the profile and visibility of craft at Showcase and increasing the order values at the show.

This process started with initiatives such as:

• • • • •

The Craftsmanship Awards The Corporate Buyers Day Craft Alive - craft demonstrations CraftEd - student exhibitions Craft Volunteers

NEW - Crafts Council of Ireland Monthly E-zine!

Bringing you all the latest news, opportunities and listings.

“At a time of dynamic change in the global marketplace and uncertainty in international economic markets it is essential that we make Showcase as attractive and essential as possible for buyers from both at home and abroad. We are working hard to evolve and develop the show to ensure that we maximise its potential for sales and growth” explains Úna Parsons, Chief Executive of the Crafts Council of Ireland.

2009 will see a range of changes including an initiative to bring craftspeople to a central location in the show - ensuring that craft is visible and easily identifiable. “We plan to bring as many craft exhibitors as possible into key areas such as Main Hall, The Balcony and the Shelbourne Hall. In addition we plan to bring the Demonstration area into the Shelbourne Hall along with a Seminar Area - and we’ll expand the programme for both.” says Úna Parsons.

Other developments will see a move and re-development of the Lifestyle and Index promotions, more craft in the entrance areas and a new look for the whole show. “We are very excited with the plans for 2009 and this is

just the start - we hope to continue this process of evolution, benchmarking ourselves against the best international shows” says Úna Parsons.

For all latest Crafts Industry news, opportunities, and events, subscribe now to receive the crafts Council of Ireland monthly E-zine. All members will automatically receive this notification, so please ensure that we have your correct e-mail address. To subscribe please e:mail maryo@ccoi.ie

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News and Reviews “...this award was created to encourage & promote work that is innovative, original and contemporary”

JEWELLER INGA REED RECEIVES CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD 2008

THE CRAFTSMANSHIP AWARD was introduced by the Crafts Council of Ireland at Showcase 2008 to recognise the unique skills, talents and abilities that are utilised in the craft process.

It aims to reward the excellence in craftsmanship that makes a piece truly outstanding.

Open to artists of all disciplines, this new award was launched by the Crafts Council of Ireland to recognise the unique skills, talents and abilities of our leading craftspeople.

“Showcase 2008 was an ideal place to launch this award which was created to encourage and promote work that is innovative, original and contemporary to thousands of buyers” said Nicola Doran, Retail Manager Crafts Council of Ireland.

An independent panel of national craft experts examined the work of all craft companies at Showcase 2008. They were asked to base their assessment on the following criteria: High standards in design and manufacture and high standards of execution and finish.

The judges were Neil Read (Chairperson), Head of Ceramics, Glass & Metal, National College of Art & Design, Mike McCrory Silversmith & Lecturer in Fine & Applied Arts, Dr Helen McAllister,Textiles Lecturer, National College of Ar t & Design, Bernardine Hurley Craft Committee, RDS. The judges did not find the task easy because of the very high standard of work on display at Showcase. After visiting all the stands, they finally declared Inga Reed the unanimous winner for her exquisitely crafted jewellery. Speaking after the award ceremony, Chairperson Neil Read said that Inga’s work stands up against anything you will see internationally: “Inga, for a long time, has been outstanding with her jewellery. The quality of her craftsmanship is excellent and all of her work is clean, contemporary and beautifully made.”

Pieces by Inga Reed

One particular piece of Inga’s jewellery received special mention; “Her embossed silver brooch with 18 ct gold detail was exquisitely made,” said Neil Read. “We inspected the piece very closely and the finish was incredible. This attention to detail follows through in all her work.”

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

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News and Reviews

“The quality of her craftsmanship is excellent and all of her work is clean, contemporary and beautifully made”

Úna Parsons, CEO of the Crafts Council of Ireland, said she was “delighted to announce this new award and very proud to see the high level of craftsmanship displayed by our first winner. Recognition of this sort is very important to the craft sector as a whole and I look forward to honouring another fine craftsperson at Showcase 2009.”

Inga Reed Inga Reed has always been acknowledged as one of Ireland’s leading jewellers. Working with silver, gold, precious and semi-precious stones, she creates distinctive and beautiful jewellery. Her rings, bangles, earrings and pendants are all unique statement pieces thoroughly modern yet with a timeless elegance.

Inga’s work has always been popular with collectors both at home and abroad, with her work selling in galleries in Ireland, the UK, Germany and the USA. With German and English parents, a Belfast childhood, jewellery studies in England and now working in rural Ireland, it is no surprise that Inga Reed is part of a classic European design school inspired by structural composition, surface detail and making skill.

(Front row left to right) Gerr y Wycherley - Chairman, Crafts Council of Ireland, Inga Reed, Winner of Craftsmanship Award, Úna Parsons - Chief Executive Officer, Crafts Council of Ireland. (Back row left to right) Bernardine Hurley - Craft Committee, RDS, Neil Read, - Head of Ceramics, Glass & Metal, NCAD, Mike McCror y - Silversmith & Lecturer in Fine & Applied Ar ts, Dr Helen McAllister - Textiles Lecturer, National College of Ar t & Design

From her studio in County Kilkenny, Reed works by hand - using the age old techniques of piercing, filing, forging and soldering. Her inspiration comes from her surroundings, whether it’s seed heads found in the surrounding countryside or simply plumbing components around her home.

But Reed says that ultimately it is the materials and making process that shape the design: “Although my work ranges from hard-edged simplicity to the soft and feminine, the methods of surface finish are similar. Currently much of my work is decorated with embossed pattern. I like to leave the metal matte when combining silver with gold as it brings out the contrast in pattern and colour. Depending on the designs I may also oxidise the silver to create a lustrous black finish or gold plate areas to create pattern. I often use strands of semi-precious stones or coloured cords to suspend my pendants.”

Commenting on the award Inga said "This was the best possible award to get. In all the years I have been working, I have been trying to maintain standards and paying attention to details that often go unnoticed. When I heard that it was for those very details that I won the award, it was very gratifying. Also for one's craftsmanship to be acknowledged by people whose opinion you respect makes it doubly so."

For more details on Inga Reed and to see more of her jewellery, visit her newly launched website www.ingareed.com

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

News and Reviews

EDUCATION FACT Project: Fine Art & Craft Together A 2nd Level Education Pilot Initiative FACT, (Fine Arts and Craft Together), is a joint initiative between Butler Gallery, The Crafts Council of Ireland and Kilkenny County Council’s Arts Office. FACT aims to encourage the cross pollination of skills between designer makers and fine artists and to develop a model of practice for artists and designer makers working collaboratively in post primary schools.

An exhibition showcasing the work completed during the pilot phase of FACT opened at No. 72 John Street, Kilkenny from January 28th - 31st, 2008. The work, created by transition year students in three schools in Kilkenny, was of an exceptionally high standard. The students worked with artists and designer makers Polly Minnet, Debra Bowden, Ann Mulrooney, Anne Harrington Rees, Frances Traynor and Brigitta Varadi.

Students were provided with the oppor tunity to work with cast paper, glass, textiles, felting, coiling and Japanese woodblock printing. The resulting work from each of the three schools included collaborative site specific pieces, individual works focusing on environmental issues, and large format prints.

Our thanks go to the artists and designer makers, the participating schools: Scoil Airegail, Ballyhale, Grennan College, Thomastown, Presentation Secondary School, Loughboy and to participating teachers Maureen Roche, Liz Kett and Ann Mulrooney .

FACT is funded by Butler Gallery, Kilkenny County Council and the Crafts Council of Ireland.

FACT Exhibition, Kilkenny - pieces by 2nd Level students

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Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

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News and Reviews Enterprise Development Partnership The Crafts Council of Ireland is working closely with County Enterprise Boards (CEB’s) to organise business Training/Mentoring programmes for craftspeople in the regions.

Ceramic and Design Skillls Course students, in the process of making the ‘Garden Feature’ for the Water Garden Café, Thomastown, Kilkenny

The Crafts Council of Ireland have already successfully ran three very

Ceramic & Design Skills Course students create

This initiative is full of very valuable information and advice. Read what some

Magical Garden Feature in Thomastown, Kilkenny The Crafts Council of Ireland’s Ceramic Design and Skills Course have designed and made four innovative ceramic features for the Water Garden Café and gardens in Thomastown.

The Water Garden café and garden centre, run by the local Camphill Community, has been completely re-built in the last eighteen months.The four areas chosen were:- tiles for the bathrooms, a spiral water feature, a wall mounted mosaic and relief tiling of the entrance to a herb garden.

The twelve Skills Course students, under the supervision and instruction of course trainer Gus Mabelson, were divided into four teams of three and had to provide design solutions for the area given to them.

Presentations, site visits and client feedback provided valuable experience for the students.

“We have always provided the Water Garden with tableware but this gave us an opportunity for the students to work in teams and do something really ambitious” said Gus. “It is important that students realise they can use their skills and knowledge in different ways. This is especially true in todays fast changing environment”.

Application is now open for the Crafts Council of Ireland’s Ceramic Design and Skills Course see page 15 in the Opportunities section.

valuable business programmes with West Meath, Kilkenny and Sligo CEB’s. of the participants had to say.

RACHEL QUINN CERAMICS

The speakers were so open with the break down of their businesses, revealing how they reached their price points, offering their own private business details, this sort of personal private information you never usually get on other courses. Rodger Bennett’s presentation was so open, he never held back and was forth coming with his personal experiences.

I see courses that I would love to attend advertised and ran in Kilkenny, it was such a help having it based in Sligo. I hope to see further courses offered in the region again.

ROSEMAIRE DURR CERAMICS

I found the course great! Helen Connelly was an excellent choice as she comes from a craft background herself. She had a great understanding of the different levels of businesses participating on the course and made everyone feel at ease. Helen made it easy to disclose confidential information. The marketing programme was geared towards, and was relevant to craft businesses, it demystified marketing and everyone found it beneficial. I absolutely would recommend anyone interested in focusing on marketing to consider participating in this type of course if offered in your area.

The Crafts Council of Ireland and CEB’s hope to continue to grow this initiative in 2008.

For further information on these initiatives contact: Mary Whelan T: 056 7761804 E: maryw@ccoi.ie

Completed Ceramic Garden Feature

Par ticipants in the Sales and Marketing Programme with Kilkenny County Enterprise Board

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

News and Reviews

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Crafted Design at Arboretum - Garden & Lifestyle Centre As part of a pilot project under the Retail Programme the Crafts Council of Ireland have been working in partnership with Ireland’s leading Garden and Lifestyle Centre - the Arboretum in Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow - to develop an Irish craft focus within their outlet.

The objective of this pilot is to open up new retail avenues for Irish craft - to encourage existing retailers to consider craft in their product mix.

Entitled Crafted Design at Arboretum, this new area will initially play host to seven craft suppliers:

• • • •

Jerpoint Glass Moth to A Flame - candles Wergiwood Longbord - textiles

• Thomas Diem Pottery • Rob Monaghan Pottery • Christine Hughes Ceramics

The area will be officially open in late March 2008.

The aim is that this will lead to further craftspeople being stocked in Arboretum and in more Lifestyle/Garden Centres stocking Irish craft.

For more information on this pilot project contact Nicola Doran T: 056 7761804 E: nicola@ccoi.ie

Larr y Kinsella (Moth to a Flame)

Jerpoint Glass

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

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News and Reviews

TG4 Announce New Arts Initiative Programme to its Spring Schedule

COMÓRTAS CEIRDE

(Crafts competition)

Thursday TG4 at 8pm Launched on Thursday 28th February 2008 the broadcast was the first of a new six part series ‘Comórtas Ceirde’ on TG4.

‘Comórtas Ceirde’ is TG4’s inaugural ‘crafts competition’, which aims to promote new Irish artistic talent.

‘Comórtas Ceirde’ is a wonderful programme for identifying, encouraging and suppor ting young Irish ar tists -potentially our high profile ar tists of the future,’ said TG4’s Máire Ní Chonláin Comórtas Ceirde follows the chosen par ticipants from concept stage through to the creative processes and development, together with the mentoring sessions and with the final winner being revealed and featured in the final episode of the series on April 3rd 2008.

The concept for the programme, was to invite entries from graduates of par ticipating third level colleges across Ireland.Two graduates from each college were subsequently chosen from a diverse range of craft disciplines including ceramics, glass, jewellery, silverwork, furniture and textiles and in doing so give a platform to new Irish ar tistic talent.

The successful par ticipants were assigned a brief and asked to design and create a unique piece of work in their chosen craft over a four week period. Each par ticipant was assigned a mentor specific to their chosen ar t form, who would be on hand to offer advice and suppor t from concept to finished creation. Comórtas Ceirde is produced by Sterling Film and Television Productions.

T h e o v e r a l l w i n n e r w i l l b e a w a r de d a n e s p ec i a l l y c o m m i s s i o n ed p i e c e o f a r t t o g e t h e r w i t h a c h e q u e f o r € 1 0 , 0 0 0 t o a s si st h i m / h e r f u r t h e r a d v a n c e t h e i r c ar e e r w i t h i n t h e i r c h o s e n a r t f i e l d .

TG4 Comór tas Ceirde (Crafts Competition) student competitors

Craft @ Bloom 2008 As you will be aware the Crafts Council of Ireland are working in conjunction with Bord Bia to develop a dedicated Irish Craft presence at Bloom 2008, which takes place in the Phoenix Park from the 29th May - 2nd June 2008.

Craft at Bloom will be centred around the Craft Trail which will have an exhibition, demonstration and retail element to raise awareness of, and interest in, Irish craft amongst the 50,000+ visitors to the show. In addition Bord Bia will be sponsoring a prize for the Garden Design with the most creative use of Irish craft.

If you would like to be included on the database of craftspeople making commission pieces for the garden please e-mail your name and contact details to nicola@ccoi.ie or T: 056 7761804

Example of work produced during TG4 Comór tas Ceirde

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Craft Community News

(L-R) Rosy Greenlees (Chief Executive, Crafts Council of England), Úna Parsons (Chief Executive of Crafts Council of Ireland) and Brian McClelland (Chairman, Craft NI)

A Future in the Making The recently held CRAFT NI Conference ‘A Future in the Making’ was a very timely, welcome and engaging event for Northern Ireland makers as it considered ways of providing

more support to help businesses realise their full potential at home and abroad.

The conference was attended by 100 delegates including representatives from local and

regional government, further and higher education, craft and arts professionals,

cultural/tourism development staff and local and regional economic development agencies. Keynote speakers at the conference included Josephine Burns (co-Director of

Burns Owen Partnership (BOP)), Colin Stutt (independent economic and public policy

consultant) and Andy Horn (exhibitions organiser, Craftspace, Birmingham) as well as A Fine Line: Cultural Practice craft consultancy.

In addition to the keynote speakers, the conference was attended by Rosy Greenlees

(Chief Executive, Crafts Council, England) and Úna Parsons (Chief Executive, Crafts

Council of Ireland). Both Rosy and Úna took part in the panel discussions and shared

their views on current developments within the craft sector. Northern Ireland Arts and

(L-R) Nor thern Ireland Ar ts and Culture Minister Edwin Poots (MLA), Brian McClelland (Chairman, Craft NI), Joe Kelly, (Director, Craft NI), Rosemar y Kelly (Chairman, Ar ts Council of Nor thern Ireland)

Donegal Design Directorate Graduates The Donegal Development Training Programme was the first of its kind to be delivered in Donegal to micro enterprises, enabling local companies to access world-class training.

The 14 are all members of the Donegal Design Directorate Accel Project, a Donegal County Enterprise Board initiative to promote the value of good design to small and micro business in Donegal and throughout the North West. They completed a programme that included modules on product design, branding, new product development and marketing online.

To learn more about the Donegal Design Directorate, or to register to attend events during Design Week, please contact: Aisling Lynch, Design Programme Manager T: 074 9160735 E: alynch@donegalenterprise.ie

Culture Minister Edwin Poots, MLA who opened the conference said, “In the recent budget announcement I was pleased to secure £5 million over three years from 2008/2009 for the Creative Industries Seed Fund to develop business enterprise within the sector. I want to see the creation of a sector which will encourage our most

talented people to shine on an international stage, whilst providing them with the

business acumen to also be successful entrepreneurs. I don’t want the perceived

barriers of business development to stifle wonderful talent and imagination and that is why this fund will go some way towards encouraging the seeds of creativity to grow”.

The Minister’s announcement encouraged the conference to look at partnerships that

can expand and add value to the region’s craft sector. “We’re very excited at the

prospect of supporting the craft sector in Northern Ireland,” says Craft Northern Ireland’s Director, Joe Kelly. “There are many makers who possess the design and

making skills, but need support in developing their product nationally and internationally.

We want to build real partnerships that give those designers the entrepreneurial edge

they need to succeed.”

Members of the Donegal Design Directorate Accel Project who were awarded certificates from the Institute of Leadership and Management on completion of the Design Training Programme for micro-enterprises

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Craft Community News

AFTERNOON TEA @ The Leitrim Design House This Easter the Leitrim Design House invites you to AFTERNOON TEA a stunning show of teapots and tea making paraphernalia which encourages you to stop your rushing and turn up the calm!

This exhibition will take place at the Leitrim Design House from 13th March - 10th April 2008.

AFTERNOON TEA comprises the work of 25 of Ireland’s leading designers and makers who all work to a common theme that everyone will be familiar with the ar t of tea making. This exhibition is all about seeking new and unexpected experiences, making tea an essential par t of the process.

For further information please contact Anna-Marie or Geraldine at the Leitrim Design House T: 071 96 50533 or visit www.intoleitrim.com

Moved House or new address?

Notify www.newaddress.ie and any changes will be passed on to us directly.

Paul O'Mahony of the Siopaeile.com has recently launched the Irish Arts Blog www.irishartsblog.com The blog is written by a select group of ar tisans from all over Ireland, who responded to Paul's free group blog offer for Irish Ar tists launched last summer.There are 11 ar tists in all and the plan is to add some more ar tists to this group in the coming months.Paul has also recently helped launch Irish Craft Update for Karen Harper and hopes that this will fur ther kickstar t the ar tisan blogging revolution in Ireland

T o f i n d o u t m o r e l o g o n t o w w w . i r i sh a r t s b l o g . c o m

Creative Borders Arts Showcase launched A new arts showcase will celebrate the creative talent of the East Border region The Creative Borders Arts Showcase, running from 3rd - 27th April 2008, will highlight the work of artists in Counties Louth, Monaghan, Down and Armagh. Creative Borders will incorporate film, theatre, music and visual art in a number of venues in Dundalk and Drogheda.This project is part financed by the European Union through the Interreg IIIA Programme managed for the Special EU Programmes Body by East Border Region Interreg IIIA Partnership.

For more information on any of the events or to get tickets, contact:The Creative Enterprise Office on 042 939 6948 or check out www.ceoclub.ie

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

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Opportunities Sculpture in the Parklands

As part of the Patrick Dougherty residency, Sculpture in the Parklands in collaboration with the Crafts Council of Ireland would like to invite professional craftworkers to apply for the following exciting opportunities: 1. To assist Patrick Dougherty in the creation of a site-specific sculpture from 25th May - 15th June 2008.This will be one of Patrick’s largest works to date.Working with Dougherty will provide a great opportunity for craftspeople interested in developing large-scale artworks, creating a new body of work or working with a new medium.

Application information is available on www.ccoi.ie or for further information contact: Mary Whelan T: 0567761804 E:maryw@ccoi.ie

2. Education Programme “hands-on” workshops for primary schools from 2nd - 6th June.These workshops will provide an opportunity for craftspeople to work on site with children in the creation of a series of temporary installations using willow and the natural materials of the peatlands.

Application information is available on www.ccoi.ie or for further information contact: Amanda Walsh T:056 7761804 E: amanda@ccoi.ie Peter Dougher ty

TechnoThreads: Is this the future of fashion?

25th April - 25th July 2008

TechnoThreads, an exhibition exploring the interface of science and fashion will examine how fashion designers are using developments in science, technology and engineering in dramatic ways. Curated by Marie O’Mahony, co-author of the TechnoTextiles series of books, the show will feature a number of garments designed by top worldwide designers. Exhibits will range from the current Sexclown collection by Belgium’s enfant terrible Walter van Beirendonck to Grado Zero Espace’s Aerogel jackets based on rocket science from NASA. The Science Gallery will run a series of events and workshops throughout the exhibition, with a number of opportunities for direct visitor participation and involvement.

For further information contact: Lynn Scarff, Science Gallery, Trinity College Dublin T: 01 8964091 E: lynn.scarff@sciencegallery.com

Basketmakers Conference in Kilkenny 17th May 2008 The Irish Basketmakers Association in conjunction with the Crafts Council of Ireland are organising a conference on 17th May to coincide with the European Basketmaking Exhibition at the National Craft Gallery.This conference is open to all interested in craft and design and includes talks and demonstrations

by European basketmakers including, Lizzie Farey from Scotland, Andris Lapins from Latvia and Ane Lynsgaard from Denmark, plus many more.

For further information contact Mary Whelan T: 056 7761804 E: maryw@ccoi.ie

Irish Basketmakers Association are holding their AGM on Sunday the 18th May 2008 at the Castlecomer Estate Yard, Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny Lizzie Farey

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

13 The Crafts Council of Ireland are pleased to announce

their new association with the RDS National Crafts Competition 2008 - as key partner and sponsor.

RDS National Crafts Competition This is a major event in the Irish crafts industry calendar, allowing professional and amateur craft designers to compete together for prestigious awards with a significant prize fund across 21 different categories. The RDS National Crafts Competition is Ireland’s oldest crafts competition, dating back to the 18th century.

An exhibition of category winners will be showcased as part of the annual Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show, which this year takes place from August 6-10, to allow tens of thousands of national and international visitors to view some of the best examples of work by craft designers as selected through this major national competition.

The exhibition will continue for a few days in the RDS Concert Hall after the Horse Show concludes before travelling to three other venues around the island of Ireland.

The Competition has proven to be a valuable forum for gaining recognition and has been a launching pad for many of Ireland’s top craft designers. The Winners Travelling Exhibition, which has been in operation since 1999, is successfully used to increase the profile of craft workers and promote a greater awareness of Irish craft.

The Society, founded in 1731, continues to fulfil its commitment to advancing agriculture, arts, industry and science. The RDS National Crafts Competition is part of the RDS Foundation’s Arts programme which aims to support the professional development of young musicians, artists and craftspeople; to promote and foster excellence; and to support developmental projects in the arts.

Opportunities Call for entries…

RDS National Crafts Competition 2008 - Prize Fund in Excess of €30,000 Open to professional and amateur craft designers, resident in Ireland or Irish craft workers based abroad, with 21 different categories.

An exhibition of winners will take place as part of the Fáilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show from August 6 - 10 and will then travel to three other venues around Ireland.

Closing date for first round photo submissions: May 19th 2008 Entries must be accompanied by an entry form.

For further information contact: Johanna Suhr RDS Arts Department Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 Tel: 01 240 7255 Fax: 01 660 4014 Email: arts@rds.ie www.rds.ie/arts

For media enquires, please contact: RDS Marketing Dept;Tel: 01 668 0866 Email: marketing@rds.ie

UP-COMING SEMINAR Ecology. Mythology Technology: The Future Farmleigh House 15th May 2008 S pe ak e r s i n c l u de ar t i s ts , a r c h i te c ts an d c u r a to r s .

L i m i t e d n u m b e r o f pu bl i c p l a c e s a va i l a bl e B o o k i n g s a n d f u r t h e r d e t a i l w w w . cc o i . i e Or contact Mary Whelan T: 056 7761804 E: maryw@ccoi.ie in conjunction with the National Craft Gallery TOURING Exhibition Ecology. Mythology Technology, Farmleigh - 15th May 29th June More information available on the Exhibitions section of www.ccoi.ie

Research Missions Financial assistance towards visiting shows If you want to research an event/show in 2008 and want to avail of assistance with costs, apply

now

Closing date: 28th March 2008 For further information and application form go to: www.ccoi.ie or contact Helen Loughran T: 048 30833605 E: helen@ccoi.ie

Get inspired, read the reviews on www.ccoi.ie Also visit the Resource Area on www.ccoi.ie for listings of Design Museums/Craft Fairs & Exhibitions in Europe.

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

14

Opportunities

Who is your Customer?

Strategies for a New Market Speakers: Date/Time: Venue:

Wendy Rosen, Director,The Rosen Group, USA, Hope Daniels, Editor, AmericanStyle Tuesday 8th April 2008, 2.30pm - 5.30pm Collins Barracks, National Museum of Ireland

Founded in 1981, The Rosen Group was created to provide American and Canadian artists with the opportunities and guidance to grow their business and compete in the global marketplace. The company accomplishes this mission through its tradeshow, three arts publications and its non-profit trade association.

Do you want to find out what opportunities are emerging in the US Collector market?

Doing Business with the US Collector and Collector Market Journalists Even better, do you want to find out about opportunities to promote your work to US collectors who visit our shores?

Venue: Date: Booking fee:

Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny Saturday 5th April 2008 Registration, tea and coffee 3.00pm Workshop 3.30pm - 5.00pm €30 per person, €50 for 2 from same company

Key players (see below) will be available to meet with Irish Designer/ makers interested in hearing about US Collector needs and market opportunities. A short presentation followed by each expert hosting a table which you are invited to join, network and gather information. The workshop promises to be a lively and stimulating few hours.

• Beverly Sanders, Senior Editor, American Craft Magazine, • • •

• • •

(www.craftcouncil.org) Wendy Rosen, Buyers Market of American Craft and Rosen Group (www.americancraft.com) Mary Childs and Stanley Wooley, Holsten Gallery, Stockbridge, Massachusetts (www.holstengalleries.com) David and Clemmer Montague, International Studio Visit tour organisers for Collectors for various organisations : Mint Museum of Craft + Design in Charlotte, North Carolina, Racine Art Museum Wisconsin, James Renwick Alliance, the support group for the Smithsonian Institution Hope Daniels, Editor, American Style Magazine (www.americancraft.com/publications) Emily Kearns, Contributor to American Collector and arts journals Places are limited so book NOW!

For further information and to book a place contact: Mary Whelan T: 056 776 1804 E: maryw@ccoi.ie

Further information will be available on-line at: www.ccoi.ie Contact: Mary Whelan E: maryw@ccoi.ie T: 056 7761804 For more on Wendy Rosen please see: www.americancraft.com

Retail Opportunities Under the new Retail Programme the Crafts Council of Ireland is actively seeking to develop relationships with retailers and to increase the variety and volume of craft available to consumers.

For this to work we need to gather more information about craftspeople wishing to sell through retail - and the type of new product that is available.

If you are

• • •

already retailing and you would like to increase the number of retailers you deal with not currently retailing - but are interested in taking part in future retail projects a retailer wishing to work in partnership with the Crafts Council of Ireland

....then send your name, telephone number, a list of your existing retailers and a brief description of your products and price points to Nicola Doran at nicola@ccoi.ie or call Nicola at 056 7761804

Showcase 2009 Opportunities To exhibit at Showcase 2009 or to apply to Source Aisle see page 3

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

15

Opportunities

Applications are now invited for

Crafts Council of Ireland’s Ceramic Design & Skills Course Deadline for receipt of applications - 30th May 2008 The Crafts Council of Ireland’s Ceramic Design and Skills Course is located in a picturesque grain mill in Thomastown, County Kilkenny. The course offers students who wish to pursue a career in ceramic production the chance to learn technical and design skills through an intensive two year course. The course has been running successfully since 1990 and was established and developed for the Crafts Council of Ireland by Gus Mabelson.

Over the years the Thomastown Course has developed an international reputation and regularly hosts major conferences and workshops. Recent years have included demonstrators from Korea, U.S.A.,France, Australia and Norway.

The aim of the course is to produce highly skilled, independent, motivated makers who contribute to and shape the ceramic scene at national and international levels. Students are equipped to work with existing ceramic workshops or establish their own studio practice.

Application pack available from:

Amanda Walsh, Crafts Council of Ireland, Castle Yard, Kilkenny. T: 056 7761804 E: amanda@ccoi.ie To download application form please visit www.ccoi.ie Top Image: Ceramic and Design Skillls Course students 2007 - 2008

National Craft Gallery - OPPORTUNITIES Call for Exhibition Proposals 2009 - 2010

We are seeking submissions from organisations, guilds, societies and curators with ideas or proposals for the National Craft Gallery, other venues in Ireland and internationally, for the period 2009 - 2010. This open call for exhibition proposals is designed for those who have exhibitions in development or ideas for an exhibition. It may involve showing in the National Craft Gallery, Kilkenny and or in a number of Irish or international venues. The strength of the idea and the quality of the work will be assessed and exhibitions may be put into development as a result of submissions made to this open call.

Submissions Deadline: 15th May 2008. For further information go to www.ccoi.ie

Breaking Out An exhibition for emerging makers, which will open in the National Craft Gallery, October 2008

“There are so few opportunities for those who are trying to break out of a mould and into the craft professions in serious way.”

This is what you have been telling us.You want to see exhibitions for people trying to establish themselves in a profession.

We have an opportunity for all those seeking to break and emerge into the craft professions.

For further information go to www.ccoi.ie

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

16

Opportunities

Opportunities...Opportunities...Opportunities...Opportunities

Dates for your Diary *Please note: The May/June issue of Stopress will be published on 15th May 2008. Please forward all submissions by April 16th 2008.

OPPORTUNITY DIARY DATES

BY/ON/CURRENTLY/TBC*

Research Missions

by

28th March 2008

Doing Business with the US Collector

on

5th April 2008

Who is your customer

on

8th April 2008

TechnoThreads

on

25th April - 25th July 2008

Basket makers conference

on

17th May 2008

Ecology, Mythology, Technology Seminar,

on

15th May 2008

Call for Exhibitions Proposals

on

15h May 2008

RDS National Craft Competition

by

19h May 2008

Sculpture in the Parklands

on

25th May - 15th June 2008

Ceramic Design and Skills Course

on

30th May 2008

Midsummer's Masquerade Ball

on

21st June 2008

GANS meetings

on

11th September 2008

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

17

Opportunities

NATIONAL CRAFT GALLERY (NCG) EXHIBITIONS 2008 For 2008 Programme contact ncg@ccoi.ie or log onto www.ccoi.ie

NCG, Castle Yard, Kilkenny You'll Never Walk Alone

8th March - 27th April 2008

European Basket making

3rd May - 13th July 2008

Ceramics Design and Skills Training Course

18th July 2008 - 4th August 2008

Graduate Exhibition Image of Longing

9th August 2008 - 5th October 2008

RDS National Crafts Competition Prizewinners

4th October 2008 - 27th October 2008

Breaking Out

18th October 2008 - 31st January 2009

For NCG Touring Exhibitions visit www.ccoi.ie or see Exhibitions Programme

INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR DATES 2007 The Ireland Show,

Secaucus, New Jersey 19th - 22nd April 2008 www.irelandshowsecaucus.com

Pulse,

London 1st - 3rd June 2008 www.pulse-london.com

Home & Gift

Harrogate 13th - 16th July 2008 www.homeandgift.co.uk

International Jewellery,

London 31st August - 3rd September 2008 www.jewellerylondon.com

Maison & Objet

5th - 9th September www.maison-objet.com

Top Drawer Autumn,

14th - 16th September 2008 www.topdrawerautumn.com

100% Design,

London 18th - 21st September 2008 www.100percentdesign.co.uk

Premiere Vision,

Paris 23rd - 26th September 2008 www.premierevision.fr

Origin: The London Craft Fair

7th - 12th & 14th - 19th October 2008 www.craftscouncil.org.uk

SOFA,

Chicago 7th - 9th November 2008 www.sofaexpo.com

SHOWS IN IRELAND Art Ireland Spring Collection

28th - 30th March 2008

Interior Design Show

15th - 18th May 2008

Bloom

29th May - 2nd June 2008

For more information on the above events: T: 056 7761804 or e-mail info@ccoi.ie

Midsummer Masquerade Ball Created by Crafts Council of Ireland

Saturday 21st June 2008

The spirit of Midsummer Night in the grandeur of Kilkenny Castle grounds - holding promise of magic, fantasy, decadence and timeless romance

Dress code: Gorgeous Ball-gowns, Venetian Masquerade, Burlesque or Traditional Black Tie Fine wines, delicious buffet, music, entertainment and charity raffle.

Gates open at 8 pm til late. Tickets can be purchased at www.ccoi.ie Ticket prices €65 each or €120 for a pair. Ticket includes Black Velvet reception on arrival, selection from buffet and bar

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

18

Advertisements FOR SALE

Slip Casting Unit - self contained, fibreglass tank with removable wooden casting rails and 0.5hp slip pump. Holds 15 gallons (about 60 litres). Complete with dispensing pipe and trigger type nozzle. Unit is mounted on castor wheels. Dimensions 38" x 15" x 25" high (970 x 380 x 630mm) weight 22kgs.Very good condition. Cost new approx €1300, asking €500 but will consider offers. For further information contact Richard T: 091 574991 M: 0879083410 E: richardcolson@eircom.net Jewellery Cases & Office equipment . Following the

relocation of DESIGNYARD to Nassau Street, we have a selection of Jewellery Cases Shelving Units, Plinths, Filing Cabinets and Pricing Machines for sale. Suitable for retail start up business or artist studio.

For further information contact: Gerry Crosbie T: 086 8297276 E: gerry@designyard.ie

Glimakra Countermarche Loom weaving width 120cm. 10

shafts, 10 pedals, double warpbeam, tie-up, heddles and reeds. Fly-shuttle attachment. shuttles. Damask attachment for 10 pattern shafts.

Price: €3,500. For further information contact: Ann O’Kelly, 4 Eglinton Park, Donnybrook, Dublin 4. T: 01 2693565 E: annokelly1@eircom.net

Stock Clearance - A quantity of buttons, buckles & unusual fastenings, various yarns for knitting & weaving, a quantity of fine gauge knitted & woven fabrics for sale.

For further information contact Amanda on T:086 0634634 E: adaunt@eircom.net.

Pattern Loom for sale, €200 For further information contact Anke McKernan T:061 921527 E: anke@McKernanScarves.com

Industrial Overlocker

option of having the exhibition curated. Individual rates are from €200. Public Liability Insurance is included. For further information contact Karen Harper T: 086 888 5321 E: karen.noticeboard@gmail.com

Standing mannequins (x4),

Craft Rooms available in Blackrock, Co Dublin.Two joining rooms, sink and many plug sockets. €20 per hour. For further information contact Karen Harper T: 086 888 5321 E: karen.noticeboard@gmail.com

A Juki industrial 4 thread over locker for sale, ideal for heavy woven and knitted fabrics. For further information contact Amanda T:086 0634634 E: adaunt@eircom.net

brand new, used once, perfect condition.Cost €295 each plus VAT. €1,000 for the lot. Or reasonable offer. For further information contact Eleanor T: 086 3493318 E: eleanor@eleanorharpur.com

WANTED

Second hand, large, single phase electric kiln . Must be in good working order. Please contact Lucy T: 087 2155500

Air Dried Yew 2 - 2.5ins thick

as well as 1-1.5 ins thick, for steam bending, needs to be straight grained over a length of five feet. Contact Mike T: +44(0)28 42772418 E: mikemiall@supanet.com

STUDIO SPACE

Gallery shop looking for Irish Hand Crafted pieces/Art . Space to rent at

€50 per week. Shop on level 3

Dunlaoire Shopping Centre.

Unfortunately no jewellery allowed!

Please send your interest to karen.noticeboard@gmail.com T: 086 888 5321. Drop in to see shop anytime.

Exhibition Space - Level 3 Dunlaoire Shopping Centre.The Irish Craft Association is delighted to announce that there is exhibition space available to groups and individuals. Costs: Group rates are from €400 per week and with the

Purpose built professional

printmaking studio in Birr,

Co.Offaly equipped with 'Polymetaal' 200cm by 100cm etching press.

For further information contact E: jlynchcrothustudio@gmail.com

Belmount Mill workshops/studios (various

sizes) available for occupation.The site has 3 phase electricity, wheelchair accessibility, parking, and loads of character on the bank of the Brosna.

Being located at Belmont Mill is a very good opportunity for crafts people to make their work and sell direct to the public. For further information see our website www.belmontmill.com or contact Tom T: 090 64 57598

Studio Space South Dublin.

Do you need studio space in south Dublin? We have a range of studio spaces for lease on very flexible lease terms. Month by month. Studios available from 150 - 3000 sq ft.

Includes light, heat, sockets, Broadband connection, phone line, WC and parking. For further information contact Paul or Declan for more details T: 01 4299972 M: 087 2265935 E: info@spacestorage.ie W: www.spacestorage.ie

OPPORTUNITIES

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

are looking for quality Irish Craft traders to attend the Dublin Docklands Maritime Festival (30th May to 1st June 2008) and the 12 Days of Christmas Festival (12th to 23rd December 2008) both located in Dublin Docklands please see www.ddda.ie for more details and pictures of previous years events.

Individual Marquees will be provided to all exhibitors and power is also available. For further information contact Vanessa Clarke E: vanessac@eircom.net T: 086 8349939 Mailing address: VSC Events Ltd, 2 Serpentine Park, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.

The Hallward-Mill Cove Ceramic Sculpture Award .

It is the aim of the Hallward-Mill Cove ceramic sculpture award to exhibit to the public the best of contemporary Irish ceramics.This adjudicated exhibition will present their significant ceramic achievements and through this art form to develop a deeper understanding of our own cultural values and traditions. Entry forms must be submitted by 17th July 2008.

The exhibition will open on 11th September at the Hallward with works selected by the Judges.The Hallward-Mill Cove Award will be presented at the exhibition opening.

The winner will be afforded the opportunity of a solo exhibition at the Hallward in 2009/10.

For full information see www.hallwardgallery.com or T: 01 662 1482. The Hallward, 65 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.

Calls for submissions for Emerging

Artists 2008 at Backstage Theatre, Longford . Now in

its 6th year The Emerging Artist Exhibition is seeking submissions from those seeking a first time exhibition in a public gallery to help launch their careers in the arts sector. Closing date Monday 31st March. Five artists will be chosen to exhibit in May.This year Farrell Coy Fine Art & Craft have sponsored a bursary of €1000 worth of art materials to the artist selected as Emerging Artist 2008. A CV and samples of your work should be submitted to: Mona Considine, Backstage Theatre, Farneyhoogan, Longford T: + 353 43 47888 E: mona@backstage.ie

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

19 Féile na Tuaithe - Turlough Park 2008

A Celebration of Irish Country Life Today - Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th May 2008. Féile na Tuaithe is looking for skilled crafts people to participate in next year’s event. Over 12,000 people attended the 2007 event, making it one of the most popular events of its kind in the country. Selection criteria apply.

Participants must be members of recognised networks. For further information contact The Marketing Department, National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo T: 094 90 31773 or E: tpark@museum.ie

The Craft Fair 2008.

Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar, County Mayo .

The first of two Makers Fairs will be held on Saturday 5th July.The Fair can accommodate 28 makers.The cost is €50 euro and applications will be available early April.

For further information contact Alex Nicholson T: 087 6320705 E: alecman@eircom.net or Brendan Murphy T: 087 6987340 E: murphyshalfacre@eircom.net

Kingdom of Mourne Embroidery Guild (KMEG)

and Jim’s Drop in Centre, Kilkeel have organised a craft fair on Saturday 24th May 2008 from 10am until 4pm at Jim’s, Edgewater House, Greencastle Street ,Kilkeel, Co Down.There are twenty tables for crafters at £25.00 each between two rooms.Tables will be approximately 5ft by 3ft.There will be no entry charge to encourage more visitors. For further information contact Anne Orr Secretary, KMEG 35 Main Road, Ballymartin, Kilkeel, BT34 4NZ T: 0044 7736645591

American Gallery looking for teapots We are planning on

opening an Irish Tea Room next to the gallery. We are searching for a manufacturer to make durable teapots with our logo on them for restaurant use and to sell in the retail shop.

Please forward images of your

Advertisements teapots asap to Forty Shades of Green, Purveyor of Fine Irish Art, 111 Church Street Charleston, SC 29401 E: mmmlc63@yahoo.com

START Magazine

- available on-line.The Winter issue of START Magazine - arts and culture of the South-East - is now available for download from W: www.startmagazine.ie/

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Careers at DESIGNYARD

Sales Supervisor - This role primarily involves the supervision of our retail sales team.The ideal candidate will have, at least, one year’s experience in a supervisory role and have a proven track record in sales, preferably in jewellery and design. Sales Advisor /Jewellery - We are seeking candidates with a background in jewellery who have, at least, one year’s experience working in a retail environment. Applicants should be enthusiastic, committed, and selfmotivated, with lots of initiative and enjoy working as part of a sales team. Good communications and organisational skills are essential. Corporate Gift/Applied

Arts Manager - We are looking for an enthusiastic person who is organised, driven, and self-motivated to be successful.You’ll be a team player with good sales, communication, computer and analytical skills who loves a challenge. In addition to a management role, you will also be involved in the disciplines of Purchases, Sales, Marketing and Public Relations. Public Relations/Marketing Executive - Are you the Public Relations/Marketing Executive we are looking? If so you’ll be Enthusiastic, creative, inspired, passionate, self motivated and organised.You’ll be a team player with good writing, communication, computer and analytical skills who loves a challenge.

You’ll be excited about working on varied projects. Please write or e-mail with full CV to: Ann Sevastopulo, Asst. General Manager, DESIGNYARD, 48-49 Nassau St, Dublin 2 E: ann@designyard.ie

WORK WANTED

Lady seeks work doing Knitting & Crochet . 25 years

experience making designer garments.

Fast worker. Contact Liz T: 086 3535119

children . Make an Easter Bunny,

bread baking & Easter decorations for boys & girls age 6-18 years on Wednesday 19th March 10am-4pm.

Please enrol now T: 049 9523461 E: info@bearessentials.ie or book on line at www.bearessentials.ie

woman with extensive craft experience at home and

Cadenza Glass Beads…The Beautiful Simplicity of Hand-Crafted Glass Beads! Glass Bead Making Workshops from beginners to intermediate to advanced. All courses held in Cadenza Glass Bead Studio, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin. For further information contact Ruzica Ruane T:(01) 2352156 E: studio@cadenzaglassbeads.com W: www.cadenzaglassbeads.com

Professional product designer/maker available to

Cork Textiles Network presents MAGICALTHREADS .

Craftspeople of the West - do you need an extra pair of hands? Irish

abroad is available to work part-time in the Galway area. Fast learner, honest and reliable, looking for a new challenge. References available on request. Contact 087 6165080

work with craftspeople to create a new product range or develop existing craft. Reasonable rates.

For more information please contact Eva T: 086 1936670 E: evamcsweeney@gmail.com

Professional mould and model maker (MA graduates in

Design - Ceramics) offers help in your own working space with casting unique pieces or mass production of the forms.The plasterwork involves using lathe, carving model, mould making (case mould, rubber mould, press mould). Suitable for the technique of slip casting, press moulding and casting the polyester.

For more information contact Boba T: 0868772068 E: bobachandogova@yahoo.ie

WORKSHOPS /COURSES Bear Essentials & Silver Bear Centre, Bawnboy Co Cavan Teddy Bear

Skill Course for adults

Learn all the skills you need to make your own Mohair teddy bear. Saturday 1st March from 10am - 5pm

Creativity Day Course for Easter Experience for

Tapestry weaving workshop with Fiona Hutchison. For beginners and advanced students 14th /15th June 2008 at Fota House, Fota Island, Carrigtwohill, Cork Cost: €195 (includes tea/coffee, lunch, and materials)/€175 for CTN members.

For further information T: 021 4317200 M: 0872987271

Card Making classes, In Lee's Pub, Main Street, Kilcoole, Co Wicklow. Saturday 31st May - Theme Boys Toys Saturday 5th July -Theme Summer Fun.Time 10am to 6pm cost €40. For further information contact Yvonne Tune T: 01 2010117 Full details available on website W: www.cardartoriginals.com

STUDIO SPACE WANTED

Dublin City Enterprise Board offers courses and training

modules that are run by professional trainers and supported by FAS, the state training agency. As a result we can offer high quality business training

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

20

Advertisements at surprisingly low cost. In today’s information driven economy, training to acquire the necessary business knowledge can make the vital difference between success and failure. Our training venues are the National College of Ireland, I.F.S.C., Dublin 1 and Guinness Enterprise Centre, Dublin 8. Book today at www.dceb.ie/onlinebooking

Tourism Learning Networks - a unique and flexible

learning networking initiative.You choose from a wide range of programme topics and we provide support through mentoring and providing access to information and web based e-Learning. For further information contact T: 01 884 7771 E: tourismtraining@failteireland.ie

Potter Marcus O'Mahony

offers a range of courses at Glencairn Pottery,Lismore,Co.Waterford,from beginners weekends to one week workshops suitable for intermediate and advanced students. Weekend Courses 2008;....19/20th April...17/18th May. Summer Courses 2008; Salt Glaze Courses; 22/28th June...20/26th July...Wood Fire Course 10/16th August. For further information visit website www.marcusomahony.com or contact Marcus on T: 058 56694 M: 086 2028756

Kozo studio workshops for Spring 2008 Hand

Papermaking beginners & advanced, Textile Art Workshop, Printmaking, Silk Papermaking, Batik, Creative Willow Course - Basket making.

Bookings are confirmed with €50 deposit sent in advance. All fees include all art materials and refreshments available at the studio. KOZO Studio Certificate - with reference from tutors/artists - is provided on completion of workshops. For further information and bookings please contact Tunde at Kozo Studio and Gallery: T: 056 7793265 E: tundetune@gmail.com W: www.kozogallery.com

Exciting Workshops in Hat Making & Millinery.

Have fun creating your very own hat, bonnet or chapeau and learn about the classic art of Millinery design and technique with renowned Westport based Milliner Lina Stein.

For further information contact Lina T: 098 28449 E: linasteinhats@eircom.net W: www.linasteinmillinery.com Hillview Alpacas, Hillview House, Gorteen, Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny Fibre Clinics with Liz Barlow, ABFS Accredited Breeder and BAS Judge. 26th April 2008 - open for everybody interested in animal fibre and the processing if it. Lots of hands-on and a detailed tour around Hillview Alpaca Fibre Processing Mini Mill. 28th April 2008 - Advanced Fibre Clinic open for Alpaca breeder and/or owners. Bring your fleeces and we will guide you through evaluation and sorting.The second part of the clinic will focus on mating your animals in order to improve your herd’s fibre. Each clinic costs €150.00 (excl.VAT) including tea, coffee and refreshment all through the day, light lunch and detailed documentation, 9am till 4pm, full payment needed to secure bookings (limited places) participants of first clinic on 26th April 08 will have priority for Advanced Course. €50.00 discount when booking 2 days, closing date 10th April 2008. For further information T: 086 8549858 W: www.hillview-alpacascom

The West Cork Craft & Design Guild is launching a

series of exhibitions and a new improved professional website, to celebrate its first decade of successful networking and promotion.

Celebrations begin with a 10th Anniversary Show curated by Sarah Foster (Lecturer at Crawford Art College) Dec. '07, at The West Cork Arts Centre, Skibbereen, West Cork.

A film is also being commissioned (Rob Bradstock) of the Guilds members at work.The Guild is best known for it's high standard of craftsmanship and innovative design, inspired by the creative energy of the West Cork landscape. For further information visit website www.westcorkcraft.org

One-day Digital Photography workshops

in West Cork. A one-day workshop on how to get the best from your camera, in and around Bantry House or Gougane Barra hotel. Basic courses and Level 2 courses for experienced photographers new to digital. In association with Olympus. €75 - refreshments provided, lovely lunches available at each venue. For further information contact Ben T: 027 66133 E: benr@esatclear.ie

Hands on creative workshops in West Cork .

A chance to spend time with top professionals, learning arts or craft skills. A wide range of classes, courses and workshops, from single days to ongoing day/evening classes in a variety of locations in West Cork.

For further information contact W: www.handsonwestcork.com

SUPPLIERS

The Picture Works .You can print 600 postcards with your own design for €109 ex vat. We are members of the 1% For The Planet Alliance where 1% of our total sales is donated to chosen environmental organisations. Our postcards are printed on 50% post consumer recycled pulp with virgin fibre sourced from sustainable and managed forests.

For further information see www.thepictureworks.com or T: 01 230 0558 The Lisnavagh Timber Project grows, sources, conditions and supplies fully traceable homegrown Irish hardwood timber, from sustainable resources, to Ireland's furniture makers and woodworkers.

For further information contact

The Lisnavagh Timber Project, Lisnavagh, Rathvilly, Co Carlow. T: 059 9161784 E: info@irishwoods.com W: www.irishwoods.com

Web Design - You take pride in

your craft. We take pride in designing a site for you that represents your products at their best.Visit our site www.mckeedesign.co.uk for samples of work we have done for other crafts people. For further information contact: T +44 (0) 28 97565681.

Free web page for skilled makers on craft & design Craftsman

craft&design Magazine are offering a free promotional webpage to skilled craftspeople in Ireland and the UK on their gallery website at www.craftmaker.co.uk This is a nonselling website, which aims to raise public awareness of the skills involved in traditional and contemporary crafts.

Each web page includes an image, up to 250 words of text about your work with information about the materials and techniques that you use, and your contact details.

To enter the selection process, go to www.craftmaker.co.uk or contact Michael Ball on T: +44 158 020 1663.

JDLdigital - Have your work professionally photographed for publication. Full working photographic studio 27ft x 14ft with rear access to bring in your larger pieces of art work Paintings, Jewellery, Pottery, Craft Work. For further information contact John T: 085 144 2270 E: info@jdldigital.com W: www.jdldigital.com Irish Woodwool - the ideal packaging material. Very good absorbing quality, competitively priced, clean, antibacterial, sustainable, compostable, ecologically recommended, aesthetically appealing.

1 highly compressed bale approx 20kg, € 20 - discounts available on orders over 50 bales. For further information contact Irish Woodwool, Clonmel, Co Tipperary T: 087 1252527 or 086 3306366

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

21 Happy with the look of your

exhibition display output ?

If not call Finntan on (01) 8374041

Designer Websites - As a

recent design graduate of NCAD, I offer a web design service that understands you, your business and your requirements. After careful consultation, I can design a website as individual and creative as your business. For further information contact T: 086 3001006 W: www.metricdesigns.com.

Packaging - Wooden Presentation/Giftware Boxes

Present your exquisitely handmade quality jewellery in our top of the range handcrafted wooden boxes created from native and exotic woods.

Commissions also available. Discount on batch purchases. For more information please contact Ian or Kate on +44 (0) 28 90843532 or ian@hawthornecrafts.com or kate@hawthornecrafts.com W: www.hawthornecrafts.com

Designed 4U presentation boxes for a range of gifts and crafts.

All boxes are made to customer requirements.Your company logo can be included on the box and it can be lined using a range of materials. No minimum order. No set-up fee.

For further information contact: Declan McKenna, Designed 4U T: +44 (0)28 30850122 F: +44 (0)28 30851011 E: info@designed4u-ireland.com

Jem textiles are agents for Bennetts Silks in Ireland, offering a comprehensive range of silks , e.g. dupions, satins, georgette, chiffon, crepes & velvets in an extensive range of colours, suitable for bridal, fashion & interiors, and at competitive wholesale prices. For further information please contact Jacinta T:059 9152270 M:087 9952489 or E: jemtextiles@eircom.net

Craft Supplies Website

www.craftsupplies.ie cardmaking, scrap booking and other craft supplies.

Advertisements Includes crafter’s forum. Ships all over Ireland. For further information contact info@craftsupplies.ie

Fibres for spinning and felt making.

Top quality silk and wool tops.

Gaywool dyes perfect for dyeing wool and silk. Ashford weaving and spinning equipment. For further information contact Suzie Sullivan T: 098 21888 or E: suzie@derryauncrafts.com W: www.derryauncrafts.com Adorn.ie . Cardmaking,

Scrapbooking and Jewellery making supplies for all your crafting needs.

Create your own Wedding Invites or choose from our range of Wedding Stationary. For further information contact Marcella T: 061 327857 W: W: www.adorn.gencodesigns.com

BUSINESS & FINANCE Let us help you get noticed . We understand brands,

markets and media. Our work varies from designing brochures and logos to developing advertising campaigns (press, web etc). Please contact May on 01 284 4433/086 81 64 867 or log on to www.yes-I-like-it.com

RiseCreatives is an online

portfolio site dedicated to showcasing creative talent. Members receive their own webspace within our site where they can showcase their work.They also receive a space in the online Studio to sell their work with no commission on sales. For buyers, the Studio is a unique reference point to source art, design and craft work in one place. For further information visit www.risecreatives.ie or E: info@risecreatives.ie T: 087 2703890.

Space Self Storage 20% Discount CCOI Member.

Make our space yours. We are a new state of the art self storage facility based on the M50 in south Dublin and are proud of offer all CCOI

members a 20% off their first months rent on any of our storage units. We offer own door own key storage units which you can access whenever you wish. We have a large range of units from 10 - 300sq ft. Units available from €10per week. For further information contact Paul or Declan for more details T: 01 4299972 M: 087 2265935 E: info@spacestorage.ie W: www.spacestorage.ie

Gifted - The perfect online wedding list

Gifted is a fresh approach to the traditional wedding list. We are looking for artists and creators from all over Ireland, who can expand our range of products. Gifted are committed to platforming as many home-grown creations as possible.

So if you think your product or range are suitable as wedding gifts, contact Cate Sheeran T: +44(0)2890 603703 M: +44(0)7870 389040 E: info@gifted-online.com W: www.gifted-online.com

NOTICEBOARD - Free newsletter to all Artists and

Crafts people in Ireland. Every two weeks you will receive information about fairs, exhibitions, good suppliers, help to start your own business.

You can also advertise your own business, products and classes/ courses. 'Connecting Artists and Crafts People in Ireland'. For more information contact Karen Harper T: 086 8885321 or E: harperkaren@eircom.net

Do you have Tourist’s asking for the VAT back when purchasing goods in your shop? Moneyback VAT refunds offer the tourists the best refunds and you can also generate a rebate for administration. No cost involved.

For more information contact Anthony T: 087 7716888 or W: www.moneyback.ie

ADVERTISE ON WWW.CCOI.IE You can also advertise opportunities and general advertisements (ie. Craft Courses, Craft Events, Stands, Fairs, etc.) on the CCoI website (www.ccoi.ie).

To do so please email details and a short description to info@ccoi.ie and mark it for Web Opportunities.

For latest Opportunities log onto www.ccoi.ie

Sheep by Thomas Hill - You’ll Never Walk Alone Exhibition at the National Craft Gallery

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

22

Exhibition Snapshots ‘Patrick Dougherty will weave his magic with willow to create a monumental work of art at Lough Boora’

Sculpture in the Parklands Patrick Dougherty internationally renowned environmental artist at Lough Boora

Patrick Dougher ty

One of Ireland’s most exciting artistic centres is, surprisingly, based in a bog in county Offaly. Sculpture in the Parkands, set in a cut away bog in Lough Boora, is responsible for some of the most innovative land and environmental sculptures in the country. Since 2002 Irish and international artists have created a series of large-scale sculptures inspired by the rich natural and industrial legacy of our bog lands.

The artists create significant site-specific works of art while living in the community as artists in residence. Their wonderful creations then form part of the Parklands permanent collection. Supported by Bord na Móna, Sculpture in the Parklands is open to the public as a source of inspiration, study, recreation and education.

This summer, for three weeks, internationally renowned environmental artist Patrick Dougherty will weave his magic with willow to create a monumental work of art at Lough Boora. The American artist and his helpers will twist, weave and entangle hundreds of willow saplings to build a walk-through work which will rise above the grove of alder trees in the Parklands. Including hallways and swirling chambers, Dougherty says his piece will “embody momentum and the forces of nature.”

To give an idea of the scale of the work, Sculpture in the Parklands Director Kevin O’Dwyer says the proposed sculpture “will consume over 10 tonnes of willow saplings and involve the assistance of 8-10 helpers over a three week period.”

Spanning more than two decades, Patrick Dougherty has created over 200 large-scale temporary sculptures worldwide. Since creating his first sapling structures in 1982, the artist has travelled throughout the world making installations for museums, sculpture parks, botanical gardens, private residencies and festivals. His environmental sculptures have been seen climbing the sides of buildings, finding shelter among a row of trees or winding up the banisters of Museum foyers. Dougherty uses only natural materials for his installations, collecting truckloads of sticks from the surrounding land and using them one by one to accumulate a provocative form that has power and grace.

This unique chance to work with Dougher ty during the installation process will provide the incentive for craftspeople to scale-up their own personal work. For others it may be a wonderful opportunity to experiment with alternative materials.

Kevin O’Dwyer envisages the programme involving 6 full-time craftspeople working alongside community volunteers. The site will be open to the public and will provide an opportunity for the community to experience the creativity and energy of this world-renowned artist.

Dougherty’s residency at Sculpture in the Parklands is one part of a series of arts events surrounding the 13th International Peat Congress, which takes place in Tullamore, Co Offaly and Lough Boora Parklands from 9th - 15th June. The Congress was first convened in Leningrad during the 1960’s and this is the first time that it will be held in Ireland. Over 600 delegates from 40 countries will participate in a weeklong conference entitled ‘After Wise Use - the Future of Peatlands’, which will explore environmental, ecological, archeological and cultural issues centred on peatland heritage across the globe.

F o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n o n t h e p r o g r a m m e d u r i n g P a t r i c k D o u g h e r t y ’ s i n s t a l l at i o n please visit www.sculptureinthe parklands.com. Further information on the artist can be found at www.stickwork.net

This is not the first time he has exhibited in Ireland. In 2007, images of Dougherty’s monumental pieces were included in Wild Geese, an exhibition at the National Craft Gallery which celebrated the Irish roots of major American artists.

H i s c o n n e c t i o n w i th t h e C r a f t s C o u n c i l o f I re l a n d c o n t i n u e s t h i s s u m m e r . I n c o l l a b o r a t i o n w i t h S c ul p t u r e i n t h e P a r k l a n d s , t h e C r a f t s C o u n c i l o f I r e l a n d h a v e h e l p e d m a k e t h e r e s i d e n c y p o s s i b l e a nd w i l l p r o v i d e o p p o r t un i t i e s for its members to work with this inspirational artist. For more information see p a ge 1 2 .

Piece by Patrick Dougher ty

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

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Exhibitions & Events - NCG

“People do not realise the diversity of work within Europe. Baskets vary hugely from country to country, as do the materials”.

European Baskets National Craft Gallery 3rd May - 13th July 2008 This summer sees a major exhibition coming to the National Craft Gallery. European Baskets, curated

by Joe Hogan (Ireland) and Mary Butcher (UK), features functional and sculptural work by some of Europe’s most important basketmakers.

The exhibition, which runs from 3rd May to 13th July 2008, will feature work

by almost 80 basketmakers from all over Europe - including England, Scotland, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Spain and, of course, Ireland. Spread across both galleries, European Baskets will showcase traditional baskets, functional work by professional basketmakers and a selection of contemporary pieces.

Klaus Titze

The idea for this exhibition was born over 2 years ago, following on from the phenomenal success of the Irish Basketmaking exhibition. Joe Hogan

recognised there was an appetite for this kind of work and wanted to introduce a wider audience to the range of wonderful baskets being created

all over Europe: “People do not realise the diversity of work within Europe.

“But as well as looking back at traditional baskets, we will also cover cutting

example, in Spain, down in the hot, dry south of the country most baskets are

most basketmakers inhabit, creating professional, functional baskets.”

Baskets vary hugely from country to country, as do the materials. For made using Esparto Grass while in the northwest of Spain, where it is wetter,

edge contemporary work and that space in between, this is the space that

they use field rushes to weave waterproof shepherd’s cloaks.”

European Baskets will appeal to a very wide audience. For other basket

It is a wonderful achievement to gather together this traditional, indigenous

For the collectors of contemporary craft, it is a chance to see stunning

work into one major showcase. Both curators are passionate about exposing people to this range of baskets before the tradition dies out. “Today there

is much more emphasis on contemporary work,” says Hogan. “But we must

be mindful that when the old basket makers die, so too will the traditional

makers, it is a wonderful opportunity to see a diversity of work and materials.

sculptural basketwork.The historical aspect of the exhibition will be of interest

to many and, of course, there will be plenty of visitors eager to see just how functional, beautiful and covetable a beautifully crafted basket can be.

baskets. These traditional makers all over Europe were making wonderful

As well as the exhibition itself, visitors will also have the opportunity to see

doesn’t happen anymore. Today, 95% of the baskets in Europe come from

the Irish Basketmakers Association will have a series of events on Saturday

work from indigenous materials, just because it was beside them. That just

China. That figure is even higher in Ireland. We hope this show will open debate and perhaps even encourage a demand for local work made with

some of Europe’s leading practitioners at work.To co-incide with the exhibition 17th May and Sunday 18th May. See page 12 in the opportunities section.

indigenous materials.”

European Baskets will also include a catalogue, which will be a substantial

historical record of the work. Hogan says the plan is that this catalogue will be very much part of the exhibition; putting all of the work in context and recording the history of basketmaking throughout Europe.

To get a copy:

Contact ncg@ccoi.ie T: 056 7761804

or download from www.ccoi.ie

Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter

24

Upcoming Exhibitions - NCG YOU’LL NEVER WALK ALONE National Craft Gallery, Castle Yard, Kilkenny 8th March - 27th April 2008 Bluecoat Display Centre, Bluecoat Chambers College Lane Entrance, Liverpool, L13BZ 1st March - 19th April 2008

Amanda Notarianni

Spanning two cities,You’ll Never Walk Alone celebrates the strong links between Ireland and Liverpool. The National Craft Gallery in Kilkenny and Liverpool’s prestigious Bluecoat Display Centre will showcase exquisite contemporary craft by some of today’s leading practitioners.

Furniture, ceramics, glass, silver, textiles, baskets and jewellery - although the materials and techniques are different, each artist is renowned for their originality and expertise. All of the Irish artists in this major exhibition have been drawn from Portfolio, a directory of some of the country’s top craftspeople.

Initiated by the Crafts Council of Ireland, Portfolio was selected by a panel of international experts. Spread across the two galleries in Kilkenny, visitors will see work by the Irish artists paired with English work of similar qualities and considerations. Although living in different countries, these artists share a strong cultural bond and are connected by a passion for contemporary craft.

Admission is free. Liverpool is European Capital of Culture for 2008. www.bluecoatdisplaycentre.com

IRELAND

Stevan Hartung Cheryl Brown

Sonja Landweer

Michael McCrory Cormac Boydell Berina Kelly

Karl Harron

Cara Murphy Jane Jermyn

Bernie Leahy Joe Hogan Sara Flynn

ENGLAND

Edward Teasdale Emma Rodgers Halima Cassell

Li-Sheng Cheng

Thomas Hill Kate Moult

Amanda Notarianni

Laura Baxter

Rebecca Gouldson Stephen Dixon

Molly Rathbone

Mary-Ruth Oda

For further information on the National Craft Gallery:

T: 056 7761804 E: ncgpress@ccoi.ie W: www.ccoi.ie The National Craft Gallery 2008 opening times are: January - March: Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm (Closed Sunday) April - December: Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sunday 11am - 6pm

FOR NATIONAL CRAFT GALLERY NEWS TURN TO PAGE 23 All notices and advertisements are published in Stopress for general information purposes only, at the risk of the advertiser and at the discretion of the Crafts Council of Ireland (CCoI). CCoI make no representations or warranties about any of the information contained in any notice or advertisement and accept no responsibility for the accuracy of any information contained in a notice or advertisement. Advertisements in Stopress do not indicate endorsement by CCoI. It is the responsibility of the reader to check that goods and services are described fully and accurately.

CCoI expressly excludes liability for direct or indirect consequential loss or damage which may arise in respect of Stopress or purchase of the goods and services.

CCoI does not accept any responsibility for or necessarily endorse the views expressed by third party contributors to Stopress.

All copyright, database rights, trade mark design rights and any other intellectual property rights whatsoever in Stopress are, owned by and the property of CCoI.

Crafts Council of Ireland, Castle Yard, Kilkenny t: 353 56 7761804 f: 353 56 7763754 e: info@ccoi.ie www.ccoi.ie

The copydate for the May/June 2008 Stopress is April 16th 2008.

Publication date is 15th May 2008

Adver tising in Stopress is free and is welcomed. Submissions for ar ticles from craftspeople and those interested in craft are also always welcome - please contact:

Communications Dept.

Crafts Council of Ireland Castle Yard, Kilkenny t. 056 7761804 e:stopress@ccoi.ie

While every care has been taken in the compilation of this Stopress, the publisher cannot take responsibility for errors or omissions.

design: www.dynamite.ie

An exchange of ideas, designs and craftsmanship. Some of Ireland’s most collectible craftspeople are paired with leading artists from the Northwest of England.

Thomas Hill