Stopress, CCoI July/August 2007

CCoI ANNUAL REPORT 2006 P. 3

IRISH STAINED GLASS ART P.24

16 News and Reviews P2

Standard Setters

P6

Craft IT - Ebay Online Marketplace

P3

Annual Report 2006

Education P4

About Craft in the Classroom

Community News P8

Craft Community Forum

P 10 Donegal Design Directorate Ronan Russell at Dollywood

Brian McClelland, Chair of Craft NI, Sarah Daly, Acting CEO of Crafts Council of Ireland, President Mary McAleese, Dr. Mar tin McAleese, Joe Kelly, Director Craft NI, J.P. Donnelly, Vice Chair of Crafts Council of Ireland

President Mary McAleese honours Irish Craftspeople in Áras an Uachtaráin

Jerpoint Glass - Exhibition

P 11 Louth Craftmark - New Website Baskets Workshop

Designyard - Relocation

Opportunities P 12 Bursary 2007

P 13 Trainer Sought for CCoI

2nd Level Programme initiative

Respected by their peers, admired by collectors and acknowledged by the Crafts Council of Ireland - but the finest honour for this elite group of master craftsmen was bestowed on a sunny afternoon in early June.

Members of Portfolio were guests of honour at a moving reception in Áras an Uachtaráin. Hosted by Mary McAleese, President of Ireland, this unique ceremony was held in recognition of the major contribution these craftspeople have made to cultural life in Ireland.

The afternoon of 6th June was infused with a sense of excitement as the craftspeople spilled into the Áras. Joined by their husbands, wives, parents, partners and friends, each artist met privately with the President and her husband Dr. Martin McAleese.Words of welcome, encouragement and praise were extended to each and every artist, making the meeting a very memorable one.

Addressing the craftpeople at the ceremony, President McAleese said the reception was “simply a way of saying thank you for the way in which your work humanises our world and brings balance to the relentlessness of mass production and homogenisation. You insist that there is a place, and a place of pride, for that which is utterly distinctive, crafted with care and absorption.”

Continued on page 2

P 14 Craft in the Classroom Research Missions Portfolio

P 15 50% Scheme

Craft NI - Making Changes

Dates for Diary P 16 Listings

Advertisements P 18 Advertisements

Exhibitions - Events

P 22 Snapshots - Seomra & Quilt Art 20 P 23 Gallery News

P 24 Upcoming Exhibitions

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News and Reviews ...“thank you for the way in which your work humanises our world and brings balance to the relentlessness of mass production and homogenisation. You insist that there is a place, and a place of pride, for that which is utterly distinctive, crafted with care and absorption” President Mary McAleese Continued from page 1

Commenting on the wonderful atmosphere in the Áras that day, she said the house was “ringing with that special vitality, curiosity and enthusiasm that each of you brings with you.”

“Through your wonderful work you have helped to raise the profile of Ireland’s craft sector in general and fine craft in particular, making it more relevant and accessible to consumers and collectors in Ireland and abroad and making Irish people very proud.”

“We know your role in reaching out to the communities across the Island of Ireland has been hugely beneficial, and we are extremely grateful for the hospitality you have shown to both constituencies, North and South, of the Crafts community” And the President herself, with these words of encouragement, ensured each member of Portfolio felt a great sense of pride in their own personal achievements. Each of the 48 members has been recognised by the Crafts Council of Ireland for excellence in the crafts sector. But this accomplishment can sometimes be forgotten during the solitary hours spent in a studio or workshop. That’s possibly why the opportunity to meet their peers in such celebratory circumstances made this day so special.

It was also a special day for staff and board members from both the Crafts Council of Ireland and Craft Northern Ireland.They all made the journey to the Phoenix Park to meet with the President. Adding to the sense of occasion was the fact that this was the first time both organisations have formally come together. And it was more than fitting that the President of Ireland was there when it happened. “We know your role in reaching out to the communities across the Island of Ireland has been hugely beneficial, and we are

extremely grateful for the hospitality you have shown to both constituencies, North and South, of the Crafts community” said the President.

“We hope that this will be the beginning of a major impetus of both of our Boards in developing a coherent and effective market-led strategy for the totality of our industry. We are in no doubt that there is only one clear winner today, our collective Craft” said CCoI Vice Chair, JP Donnelly in his address to the President.

Commending the Crafts Council of Ireland for “its tremendous work in supporting and promoting Irish crafts”, the President also said she hoped today would be the “seeding of new networks of friendship and endeavour for the future. A future where we see craft not only having a role in the marketplace, but in our education and development of society as a whole.”

To mark this special day for Irish craft, the Crafts Council of Ireland made a presentation to President McAleese and her husband. Beautiful pieces by basketmaker Joe Hogan and calligrapher Denis Brown were selected as gifts, as both men had already met the President when they were named winners of the 2006 CCoI Bursary.

Despite the significance of the ceremony, the President’s relaxed manner and the support and co-operation of the staff at the Áras ensured the day was a thoroughly enjoyable one. After a reception inside the house, where everyone was entertained with wonderful music and singing, the guests were invited to stroll around the grounds. Mingling in the sunshine in such beautiful surroundings was the perfect way to end the day and ensured that every guest went home with fine memories of a remarkable occasion.

“A future where we see craft not only having a role in the marketplace, but in our education and development of society as a whole”

Calligrapher, Denis Brown the latest ‘Standard Setter’ Chosen by a panel of experts on behalf of the Crafts Council of Ireland, Denis Brown, Calligrapher, based in Dublin is the latest ‘Standard Setter’ to be profiled in the Irish Arts Review.

Standard Setters is a joint initiative with CCoI and Irish Arts Review and promotes the concept of acknowledging consistency in design excellence within the craft industry.

You can read about Denis Brown in the Summer 2007 issue of Irish Arts Review For further information see www.irishartsreview.com

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News and Reviews

ANNUAL REPORT 2006 - A Summary 2006 saw a period of change not only for the Crafts Council of Ireland, but for the craft industry in general. These changes in the marketplace meant that there was an even greater need to understand the consumer and the reasoning behind their purchasing decisions and so the CCoI undertook its most ambitious consumer research study ever in the first quarter of 2006.The vital information that this study provided helped inform craftspeople as to the realities of the marketplace and greatly assisted the strategic planning process that was underway by mid-2006.

It also was a period of internal change for CCoI. Martin Walsh, who had been Chairman of the CCoI since May 2003 and a board member since 1997 completed his tenure at the AGM in May 2006. 2006 was also the last full year in office for Leslie Reed who stepped down as CEO of CCoI on completion of the Strategic and Business Plan in January 2007, after 10 and a half years at the helm.

2006 was the final year in a three year Strategic Plan (2004 - 2006), which saw many of the activities and policies started in 2004 and developed through 2005 came to fruition (see summary below and for a detailed review see the CCoI 2006 Annual Report). Great strides were made across all five high level goals - Design, Marketing, Knowledge, Education and Recognition.

Note: For environmental purposes this publication is only available in digital format, as a downloadable pdf or on a CD. To download the full report go to the Publications section of the CCoI website: www.ccoi.ie or contact the CCoI offices for a CD.

DESIGN

2006 saw the further development of many of the supporting actions instituted in 2004 and run in 2005, such as:

• • • •

Seminars, workshops and ‘trend days’ CCoI used these seminars to listen carefully to its membership on key issues affecting the industry The CCoI On-line Design Resource was expanded to provide a first ‘port of call’ for those wishing to learn more about design Avantcraft opportunities for designers and craftspeople to work together Further development of CCoI national and International exhibition programme

KNOWLEDGE

2006 was an intensive year of collation, analysis and dissemination of sector specific knowledge and information.

• •

Consumer-based knowledge (via research) was a key source of information for craftspeople, retailers and members of the media, and it also acted as key information when planning the Strategic Plan 2007 - 2009 Development of the CCoI web site allowed for easier access to industry specific information

MARKETING

CCoI continued its policy of providing several approaches to market research by:

• • •

Expanding its International Research Missions programme Introducing trend seminars and the Lifestyle area at Showcase Increasing profile and awareness of Irish crafts among the wider public via a range of key media

EDUCATION • • • • •

CCoI’s training programmes in Ceramics and Jewellery continued to equip students for successful careers in the fields of Goldsmithing and Ceramics CCoI continued to contribute to the work of the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC) in moving towards a common accreditation system for craft training At primary level, phase one of ‘Craft in the Classroom’ was completed and phase 2 began.

The CCoI’s 3rd level Awards Scheme was launched - establishing new relationships with ‘emerging makers’ throughout Ireland The Adaptive Craft initiative with DCU/UCD based Adaptive Information Cluster came to fruition

RECOGNITION • •

Relationships with the National Museum, the Dept. of Foreign Affairs and Irish Arts Review enabled CCoI to increase recognition and reward excellence The Bursary Award (first launched in 2005) also provides a platform through which CCoI can recognise and reward excellence

4

News and Reviews

About CCoI’s

‘Craft in the Classroom’

Craft in the Classroom aims to raise the profile of craft in primary schools through the introduction of craftsperson residencies.

It provides craftspeople with: • • • •

Training in devising projects complementary to the Primary Visual Arts Curriculum Links with schools seeking to develop projects with craftspeople Support in undertaking creative partnerships with schools Funding support to work in schools

The project provides teachers with: • • • •

Access to highly skilled craftspeople Training and support in maximising creative partnerships with craftspeople Creative ideas on interpreting the Visual Arts Curriculum Help towards the cost of project materials

To date over 30 schools and 800 children have already participated and benefited from the scheme.

Craft in the Classroom, Kilkenny Participants Overview Earlier this year, craftspeople Polly Minett and Mairead Dowling worked together on ‘Craft in the Classroom’ in Kilkenny. Below is a brief outline of the project, its aims and outcomes.

Project Outline:

To inform students about cubist artists, their philosophies and works, through the medium of paper making.

The Craft in the Classroom project took place at Scoil Bhride National School, Lisdowney, Co Kilkenny, and was co-designed and facilitated by Polly Minett (Paper Maker) and Mairead Dowling (Teacher) for classes from third to sixth.

This project took place in Spring 2007 and the objective was to explore the topic of Cubist Artists and their philosophies and works, through the

medium of paper making, covering the following strands from the Primary School Visual Arts Curriculum: Drawing and Design/Colour/Print/ Construction and Fabric and Fibre. Materials used would be recycled fabric (fitting in with the Green Schools requirements) and plant fibres such as banana leaf and cotton.

The project was designed to be facilitated in four 3 hour contact sessions - with extra time taken in class for preparation and following up on any relevant spin off topics - and designed as three individual mini projects which would fit into our central theme: 1.

2.

3.

4.

An individual piece based on a design inspired by examples of Cubist art Collaborative pieces, based on ideas and designs developed in session one Collaborative construction, based on cubist designs Finishing off work and drawing the project together

5

News and Reviews

These sessions were designed to gradually get more challenging and build on the children's growing confidence and skills.

Key Aims The aims of the project were as follows;

For the children; (from the Visual Arts Curriculum)

• to help the child develop sensitivity to the visual, spatial and tactile world, and to provide for aesthetic experience

• to help the child express ideas, feelings and experiences in visual and tactile forms

• to enable the child to have enjoyable and purposeful experiences

• • • • •

of different art media and to have opportunities to explore, experiment, imagine, design, invent and communicate with different art materials to promote the child’s understanding of and personal response to the creative processes involved in making two and three-dimensional art to enable the child to develop the skills and techniques necessary for expression, inventiveness and individuality to enable the child to experience the excitement and fulfilment of creativity and the achievement of potential through art activities to foster sensitivity towards and enjoyment and appreciation of the visual arts to provide opportunities for the child to explore how the work of artists and craftspeople might relate to his/her own work

For the teacher;

• to facilitate the above project and integrate it into all subject areas of the curriculum, where possible

• to research background links with the project and extend these into

future classroom planning and projects • to learn skills and techniques in paper making in order to disseminate these skills through the rest of the school • to ensure as much as possible that the whole experience is enjoyable for all involved

For the craftsperson;

• to facilitate a cross-curricular project through the medium of • • • •

paper making to share ideas, expertise and skills with all parties to collaborate closely on all of the above with the teacher to challenge perceptions of paper making to gain deeper knowledge of the school curriculum

Overall Reflection on the Project:

We both felt that the project was extremely successful and that we achieved all our aims and objectives. The children were actively involved in most aspects of the project, including decision making. Their understanding and appreciation

Working with large stencils

of cubist art and philosophies is apparent in their finished pieces and their comments about their work. They are now aware that paper making is a versatile creative medium that can be applied in a variety of ways.

One of the main outcomes of this project for both teacher and craftsperson is the firm belief that nothing should be taught in isolation; we assimilate information better when we are actively involved and it is taught in relation to other things.

We all found working on the project very enjoyable, stimulating and worth while.

The evaluation of this project strongly highlights the possibilities for using a creative craft medium such as paper making as the vehicle for a cross-curricula approach to teaching. We both hope we get the opportunity to continue working in this way.

Polly Minette & Mairead Dowling

The Crafts Council of Ireland is continuing to roll out Craft in the Classroom across Ireland.To get involved see below:

Craft in the Classroom Autumn 2007 Now seeking craft facilitators For details see ‘Opportunities’ on page 14

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News and Reviews

CRAFT-IT The online marketplace eBay.ie An Overview of how it works NOTE: This series of Craft-IT articles is for informational purposes only.

Already, some sellers are feeling the benefit. In the UK, ON-LINE ARCHIVE.......

WWW.CCOI.IE

• Stopress 7, 2006

What sort of website is best for you?

• Stopress 8, 2006

Blogging, just another name for a website?

• Stopress 9, 2006

Tips to increase your on-line presence

• Stopress 10, 2006

E-mail Newsletters - Part 2

• Stopress 11, 2006

E-mail Newsletters - Part 2

• Stopress 13, 2007

Internet Overview, A Case Study

• Stopress 14, 2007

A Case Study showing how ebay

can work for your business

crafts sellers have taken to eBay.co.uk in a bid to keep their business thriving through the seasonal troughs, especially in the more remote areas of the country.

Online marketplace eBay.ie is opening up new markets for Irish sellers, giving them the chance to make their mark overseas.

Already popular with sellers who want to shift the occasional item, the site is becoming increasingly popular with those who want to sell more regularly through its eBay.ie shops facility.

Most people are, by now, familiar with the site's format. The majority of items sold on eBay.ie are usually done so through the Auction-style format - about 80 percent of items are sold that way, with 20 percent through the Buy It Now (BIN) only fixed price format, where the buyer can pay a fixed price for the item.The Auction-style format allows the market to decide the item's value, while sellers can set the price tag that they wish through BIN. Some sellers opt to make use of both formats.

"BIN tends to work in parallel with the Auction-style format," explained Sean Douglas, eBay.ie. "It gives people a realistic idea of what the item is worth."

However, while most users are familiar with the individual listings on eBay.ie, there is a growing number of sellers that are realising the value of setting up a shop on eBay.ie.

What is an e-Bay Shop and how does it work?

The eBay.ie shops are essentially webpages devoted to the items of a specific seller, with a unique URL for each store. They work on the same basis as regular listings - they can be Auction-style or BIN formats.Where eBay.ie shops come into their own is if you have more than one item to sell, and will continue to have a lot of products to offer on a regular basis.

There are several different levels of shops available to users - basic, featured and anchor. Each has its own pricing structure and benefits, and just because the stores are hosted by eBay.ie, it doesn't mean that businesses relinquish control. Each store's look is customisable.

The basic store gives users five customisable pages within the shop, and a free online sales management tool for €8.95 per month. Meanwhile, spending a bit extra on the Featured stores, which costs €19.95 per month, has a more advanced sales management tool, up to 10 customisable pages, and a host of other extras including traffic reporting and marketplace data.

The traffic reports can be invaluable to sellers who are trying to make a serious living from a shop; the data, which shows where your visitors are going within your store, can be used to develop a marketing strategy and boost sales further.

As an anchor shop, sellers have a place on the shops hub - a prominent positioning that is worth paying the €99.95 per month for. Getting space on the shops hub can prove beneficial for sellers who may have some more unusual items to offer. As Douglas points out, it may bring items to the attention of shoppers that they might not have thought to search for. Already, some sellers are

7

News and Reviews

feeling the benefit. In the UK, crafts sellers have taken to eBay.co.uk in a bid to keep their business thriving through the seasonal troughs, especially in the more remote areas of the country. "There are a huge amount of sellers in Ireland that are rural-based," said Douglas. "They are making a living off eBay.ie, especially through the winter months when there are few or no tourists around."

Sell enough items and you earn status as one of eBay.ie's Power Sellers. These are regular sellers who turn over a certain amount. "The majority of top sellers on eBay.ie would have a shop, and if they don't, they should," said Douglas.

There are a number of advantages to setting up a shop on eBay.ie, with the key ones being convenience, cost savings and exposure.

Part of eBay.ie's wide appeal for both buyers and sellers is its ease of use, something that has been extended to the shops. Having an eBay.ie shop is similar to having your own website, but eBay.ie has simplified the process of re-stocking your shop and keeping the listings up to date. "The shop items are

there constantly. It gives them more exposure and the item sits there until it is sold," said Douglas. "The level of user doesn't have to be super efficient.The system is very easy to use." This is reflected in the wide range of sellers signing up for eBay.ie shops. eBay.ie sellers and shop owners can be anyone from people who are running a full-time business and want access to eBay.ie's considerable traffic, to people topping up pensions. Because eBay.ie automatically relists the unsold items in the store for you, not only does it make looking after the store much easier, it also improves the chances of selling the items. With one-off Auctions-style and BIN items, users have the choice of listing the items for periods of one, three, five, seven or 10 days. Shop Inventory Format listings can be set to last for longer durations than regular listings, such as 30, 60, 90, 120 days or "Good until Cancelled".This saves on time spent looking after the store, as if you are a regular seller, it eliminates the need to spend huge amounts of time each week relisting unsold items separately.

Meanwhile, simply having an online presence does wonders for customer confidence in eBay.ie sellers, as eBay.ie takes any attempts to carry out fraudulent transactions seriously. "If someone bought something from you before, they are more likely to buy again if they see you have an online presence," said Douglas.

Each store has its own unique URL, which can be used in any marketing literature, and the site costs much less than setting up and maintaining a separate website. In fact, Douglas points out that some businesses have even ditched their standalone company site in favour of a presence on eBay.ie. "A lot of big sellers have closed their main sites in favour of eBay.ie, as it’s easier to maintain," said Douglas. eBay's considerable organic traffic is a compelling reason alone for making the move, but there are other factors to take into account that make eBay.ie shops an

attractive proposition.

Although having an eBay.ie shop attracts a monthly fee, in addition to listing fees for each item and final value fees for items sold, spending the extra cash can be well worth it, especially when you consider what store owners gain access to. Shop sellers actually get discounts on the fees too, and may get promotional offers and free subscriptions to certain services, which means sellers end up saving money in the long run. Admin costs are also vastly reduced, as eBay.ie will help look after areas such as keeping track of sales, printing shipping labels and invoices.

Being an eBay.ie shop owner also opens up new promotional opportunities:

• • • •

Shop owners get prominent positions on search listings and can be included in promotional boxes on the results page. eBay.ie’s Cross-Promotion tool gives sellers control over which items are cross-promoted to buyers, and have access to the eBay.ie Shops Email Marketing Tool and a shop-specific search box.

When a customer makes a purchase from a seller, similar items in the store are also listed on the bottom of the item's page, increasing the chances that a customer may return for another sale.

Users can also add the vendor as one of their favourite sellers, and sign up to receive e-mail alerts each time you add new items to your stock. Meanwhile, external search engines pick up eBay.ie listings, as do the shopping comparison websites, directing even more potential customers to your page.

Crucially for craft sellers, choosing to open a store on eBay.ie can also open up exposure to the lucrative US market; Irish crafts are particularly popular with US buyers. However, sellers who plan to do international business must also include delivery charges and information for sending goods to these overseas markets, along with any relevant customs information.

The strength of eBay.ie ultimately lies in its community. Its interdependent feedback system works for both buyers and sellers, with the most trusted and reliable sellers showing it in their highly positive ratings.This system is the same for eBay.ie shop owners, so buyers can be confident that their chosen seller is both reputable and dependable, and vice versa. What it ultimately comes down to is how sellers see their business, and how much they want to succeed.

“If you are serious about selling, and want credibility as a seller, you need to have a shop on eBay.ie,” said Douglas.

In the next issue of Craft-IT (Stopress, 17, September/October 2007) we will look at how ebay users can shop safely on-line by using Pay Pal - a leading global online payment company.

Potential CCoI Pilot Project to increase on-line visibility of Irish craft CCoI are now seeking expressions of Interest from interested participants Coming out of our discussions with eBay Ireland, CCoI are exploring the potential of a group shop on eBay for Irish craft. Technology exists for groups of craftspeople to sell through eBay under one 'shop' or umbrella. CCoI are considering piloting a project - if you or your group are interested in exploring this option we would like to hear from you.

Call Nicola Doran, Programme Manager on T: 056 7796153 or e-mail nicola@ccoi.ie There is currently no closing date.

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Craft Community Forum Through the ‘Craft Community’ section of Stopress, CCoI are happy to facilitate a FORUM AREA for constructive debate amongst craft enthusiasts. The views in this forum are therefore the views of individuals and are not necessarily the views of the Crafts Council of Ireland.

“Critics are like eunuchs in a harem; they know how it’s done, they’ve seen it done every day but they’re unable to do it themselves.” Brendan Behan

A New Dialogue

Opinion/Analysis/Criticism

I was over at SOFA in Chicago in November last year. There is a very good lecture series at SOFA and one of those I attended was ‘Critical Writing on Crafts; Who Benefits?’. There were three critics on the panel who are ‘Critics’ in the area of studio craft writing. Andrew Glasgow, director of the Furniture society, Jim Romberg director of the Eagleheart Centre for Art and inquiry and Bruce Metcalf (see article below). The lecture was very thought provoking and

inspired me to contact Stopress (Craft Community news) to see if other craftspeople and craft enthusiasts are interested in joining in on a forum (via Stopress) on the topic of Craft criticism.

Below is a copy of Bruce Metcalf ’s SOFA lecture (‘Critical Writing on Crafts: Who Benefits’) which is then followed by some of my own personal thoughts on this topic. Maybe this article will also help you think and reflect on your opinions on the area of ‘craft criticism? If so, write them down. Email them to stopress@ccoi, put ‘dialogue’ in the subject bar and let’s get an intellectual debate going that can help all of us and move the craft scene in Ireland forward!

Looking forward to hearing your opinions.

Seamus Gill (Silversmith)

Critical Writing on Crafts: Who Benefits?

by Bruce Metcalf

“...of all the beneficiaries of critical writing, the artist should be the last one on the list” Back when I was teaching at Kent State University, one of my colleagues was the glass artist Henry Harlem. Henry had high aspirations and thin skin. So when a rather uncomplimentary review of his work appeared in American Craft magazine, Henry sputtered in protest. The reviewer got it all wrong, he complained. The point of a review, he continued, is to offer constructive advice to the artist. Failing that, the reviewer fails utterly.

I didn’t say anything at that time, but Henry was mistaken. As a writer, I can tell you that it is preposterous for an author to go to all the trouble of writing about artwork, and a magazine to go to all the expense of printing and distributing thousands of copies for the primary audience to be a single artist. It is as if Henry thought the critic should be involved in a private critique - but a positive one! - one-on-one, just like in the classroom. But both common sense and economics rebel against the idea.

A magazine with a circulation of 30,000 cannot be in the business of addressing its content to an individual artist. Artists in the aggregate, maybe, but not to individuals.

The same principle applies to any medium, as far as I’m concerned, from books to blogs. I would say that, in fact, of all the beneficiaries of critical writing, the artist should be the last one on the list.

My attitude informed by the fact that I have been writing about craft for 26 years, and have thought seriously about my intended audience. I write, first and foremost, for my field. By that, I mean that studio crafts, all of them, defined much the same way as the American Craft Council or the former American Crafts Museum defined it.

It is a field composed, first of all, by makers, and I think it is other makers that I always write for. But, I repeat, in the aggregate, not as individuals.Thus, my writing is informed by my sense of what makers need to know, and what they need to think about. If that’s arrogant, so be it.

I try to address some of the questions that both drive and divide the field.

These issues include:

1. How can craft be defined?

2. How can divisions between craft-as-art and craft-as-commerce be made whole?

3. What are the issues that all craft practioners face, and thus hold in common?

4. What would a theory, or theories, of craft look like, especially theories that encompass all craft mediums?

These topics should be of interest to all craftspeople and it is my hope that my writing, and anybody’s writing on craft, will provoke meaningful debate on the single most important questions that faces the field: Why does craft remain relevant in the 21st century?

If this one question can be answered, then everybody in the field will benefit. At the very least, skeptics con be convinced that there is room for the handmade in an increasingly digitalised, disembodied society.

9 That said, problems remain. Much of the craft community remains suspicious of any and all attempts to intellectualise it, and sometimes responds to such efforts with surprising hostility.

Craft also has a code of polite behaviour. What is said at dinner or in conversation at a bar is rarely repeated in public for fear of offending friends or colleagues.There is a corresponding fear of blunt criticism that discourages some observers from writing any criticism at all. It still amazes me how poorly craftspeople - and collectors and curators! - respond to a bad review. It is as if the culture wants nothing but pretty press releases, which is not the purpose of critical writing.This attitude has done much to retard the development of good writing in the crafts.

Furthermore, the crafts lack a good argument, a healthy opposition between thesis and antithesis. There’s nothing like a lively debate between two clearly defined positions to stimulate thought and push a field forward. One hopes that, as the studio crafts mature, all these impediments will fall away.

So much for my primary audience. When I write, I also mean to address the wider world, all of it, anybody who might be interested. This wider world might consist of collectors, curators, other writers, innocent bystanders, philosophers, anybody.

But I am also interested in addressing the art world. Most craftspeople of my generation have been afflicted by the traumatic experience of finding their work dismissed from the realm of “art” by some art world insider. At the same time, we craved recognition. We wanted to be perceived as artists, to have our work shown alongside the work of painters, sculptures, installation and performance artists, and we wanted those nice high New York prices too! And all but a few of us were bitterly disappointed.

So I want to speak to the world that excluded us. I might be living in the past here, but I want to explain exactly how and why they should take craft seriously. This audience is sophisticated and demanding, and not particularly impressed with the virtues of the handmade or other pleasant myths craftspeople like to perpetrate.

Mastery, the niceties of craftsmanship, the resonant meanings of domesticity count for very little to this audience, although much has changed in the last quarter century.

Still, it would be nice if the art world was persuaded to find craft worthy of its attention. I gave up thinking that craft had to be couched in the theories and vocabularies that circulate in the art world. Art theory still can’t accommodate the complexities of craft very well. Nor do I think that craftspeople gain anything by clamouring at the gates of the temple of art for admittance into their sacred precincts.

Better to convince them that our neighbourhood is a good one, and perhaps persuade them to look outside their temple once in a while.This is precisely what was done for photography in the 60’s and 70’s. Now, anybody who knows anything about art also knows that photography is its own distinct field with its own formal concerns and its own native conceptual territory.

Broadly, this position is essentialism, and it has fallen out of favor. But I am not one to say that craft and art (and design) are the same thing. I think they are fundamentally different and that difference is valuable in itself. If the craft world asserts itself as essentially different, then perhaps we can regard the inevitable hybridisation of craft and art and design without anxiety, secure in the knowledge that the fundamental core of craft is valued and respected, and found worthy of transmission into the next generations.

This last point is hugely important. If craft is to survive into the 22nd century as

anything more complex than hobbies and reproductions of antiques, then it must be taught at the college level.

College craft courses are now the most important means of transmission of craft skills and craft culture into the next generations. If these courses, and the studios that support them, are shut down, then craft will cease to exist in its present form.Thus, I believe it is crucial to present a cohesive argument for the place of craft in academia.

This task is yet incomplete. So, I suppose, the third audience for my writing is the powerful institutions that determine the future of American higher learning.While I’m certain not one university president or provost has ever read a singe word I have written, I’m still hopeful that someday they might, and that they come to believe, like me, that craft matters.

Craft Community Forum Bruce Metcalf, is a highly noted jeweller. He has received a number of crafts fellowships, and his work has been widely exhibited. Bruce also contributes to art criticism to American Craft, Metalsmith, Studio Potter, Crafts Australia, and Design (a Korean arts magazine). He is currently a senior lecturer at The University of the Arts in Philadelphia.

The Craft Forum Subject: A New Dialogue - Opinion/ Analysis/ Criticism Response by: Seamus Gill, Silversmith We are used to some excellent criticism in the media in Ireland. We are all familiar with political analysis and opinion. We read and hear it actively debated on the radio and on TV. We like to have complicated current affairs analysed for us. We enjoy hearing all the many different points of view being debated. We can’t agree with all of them, nor are we expected to. We have to make our own minds up.

We are entertained in magazines and weekend newspapers by the restaurant review.

Go to any restaurant and there are a selection of ‘positive’ reviews posted up by the door. But look beyond the written word and see what is going on. Many reviews are written merely for our entertainment. Some of the writers know nothing of the business of running a restaurant, nothing of cooking food and less of how food should be served and yet, they can still fill their column with their opinion. Is this good criticism for us or fair to restaurants? Compare this to other countries where the restaurant review is taken very seriously. The New York Times will visit a restaurant three times before writing a review!

What of critical writing on craft? Most of us are familiar with and read craft magazines from abroad. In Ireland a lot of art magazines that cover craft have a slightly different function. They are primarily involved in the promotion of craft which helps build an awareness of craft among those interested in the visual arts which of course helps and supports all of us. The crafts in Ireland are too vulnerable for an active critical

debate in public as it could be misconstrued. What I am suggesting is good critical writing and analysis for debate among ourselves.

Many craftspeople work on their own.You may have started out in Art College where there was vibrant debate and questioning and you had to write critical essays. But as you move on you get further from the critiques and depend on the opinion of “the important customer” to make your living. The analysis of the why and how become internal.

As makers we become totally obsessed with our ideas and materials and what we can do with them, and how we can do it. We get to a stage that we keep going- but don’t know where we are going, or why we keep going. It is often said that an artist or craftsperson in another profession would be labelled a workaholic. Often our spouses, family and friends don’t know what we get up to and, more often than not, we can’t explain ourselves.

You may have close colleagues whose work you know well, and who knows your work well in return. Someone whose opinion you respect and enjoy. An opinion that becomes an open forum to discuss life, business, aims, dreams and ambitions. It becomes a mutual form of mentoring.This kind of valuable friendship and respect is indeed rare and can take years to build up.

This is where good critical writings come in! I have read the writing of Bruce Metcalf through Metalsmith magazine. His critical analysis of studio craft helps me to look at what I’m doing and reflect. His perceptive writing can help hold a mirror up to your soul.

Many people in the crafts hold strong opinions and that’s a great thing. Maybe these articles can help you think and reflect on your opinions and analyse them.

If so, then join this forum and e-mail your thoughts to stopress@ccoi (put ‘dialogue’ in the subject bar) and let’s get an intellectual debate going.

Seamus Gill (Silversmith)

10

Craft Community News Donegal Takes to the Catwalk with

‘Fashion Meets Design’ A capacity attendance confirmed the first “Fashion Meets Design” show held in the County as a huge success.The over-subscribed charity event, in aid of Action Cancer, was held in the Sienna Restaurant in Letterkenny and showcased the work of top fashion and accessory designers located in the North West.

The show included a mixture of couture, fashion, knitwear and accessories from designers as diverse as Patricia Given, Hannah McGuinness, Marie McGready, Liam Grier, Pearl Johnston, Michi, Anne Hyland and McGonigle Glass Studio.

To find out more about the Donegal Design Directorate Accel Project please contact : Aisling Lynch, Design Programme Manager T: 074 9160735 or E: alynch@donegalenterprise.ie.

This project, an initiative of Donegal County Enterprise Board, is funded by Skillnets Services Ltd. under the ACCEL Programme.The Donegal Design Directorate Accel Project is funded by member companies, the European Social Fund and the National Development Plan.

Showcase to Dollywood

USA

While exhibiting this year at Showcase Ireland - RDS Dublin, Ronan Russell, New Grange Willow Design, Co Meath, met representatives from Dollywood who invited him to participate in their Festivals of the Nations in Dollywood this Spring. The theme this year was celebrating the Irish and Ireland.

Ceramic Art London is the international showcase for makers of contemporary

studio ceramics. A unique event of excellence, combining a makers’ fair and exhibition with talks, tours, demonstrations and films. Exhibitors will be supported by a major PR and marketing initiative targeting existing and new audiences.

The 2008 event will be held in the prestigious galleries of the Royal College of Art, Kensington, London, 29th February to 2nd March 2008. Selection is made from digital images or slides by an independent panel.

Application fee: £20 (inc.VAT). DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: 31st August 2007

Ronan presenting Dolly Parton with his designer curved shopper

For further details contact www.ceramics.org.uk, E: organiser@ceramics.org.uk Ceramic Art London 200825 Foubert’s Place, London W1F 7QF, UK T: +44 (0) 20 7439 3377

“Teapot” - An exhibition of Irish Craftsmen’s interpretation of the Teapot

Sponsored by FloGas

The Glass Attic Gallery at Jerpoint Glass Studio will host an exhibition of crafts to pay homage to the humble Teapot this August and September.The exhibition that features 22 Irish craftspeople from 10 counties will take a quirky look at the teapot.

The idea for this one-off exhibition was inspired by Kathleen Leadbetter of Jerpoint Glass whose love and appreciation of teapots has led to an incredible personal collection of over 60 teapots, many of which were handcrafted in Ireland.

‘Teapots’ will run from 10th August to 10th September 2007.

For further information contact

Sally Leadbetter T: 056 7724530 E: enquiries@jerpointglass.com

11

Craft Community News

Louth Craftmark Announce New Website You can view and purchase a wide spectrum of locally made unique craft from, Louth Craftmark at Highlanes Gallery, from the comfort of your home or office and have it delivered to your door.

Special features include a wedding list service, corporate gift service, gift wrapping and of course you can also commission a unique or special piece.

Visit us at: www.louthcraftmark.com

Spanish basket maker Lluis Grau workshop in Co Westmeath Lluis Grau, basket maker will teach a Galician style of basket making using strips of hazel, chestnut, poplar and other species of locally available timber.

• September 24th, 25th and 26th - Wide Strips Cost €175

• September 28th and 29th Narrow Strips Cost €120 (beginners)

Participants will learn how to choose suitable timber, prepare the strips and weave the basket.

Inexpensive accommodation will be available. This event is hosted by The Irish Basket Makers’ Association with support from the Crafts Council of Ireland.

For booking information please contact Mike Kreith T: 093 35357

In store Demonstrations this Summer Our makers will be hosting a series of in store demonstrations starting on Saturday June 23rd running over several weekends finishing towards the end of July.

Louth Craftmark will be running a promotion of each maker’s work on their demonstration day with a 20% discount on their work for that day only.The Louth Craftmark outlet and Friary Café together with the Highlanes Art Gallery next door, provide the perfect mix of culture and creativity.Visit our website for details of the makers involved.

For further information contact: Ciara McFeely, Retail Manager, Louth Craftmark at Highlanes Gallery, Drogheda, Co Louth T: 041 980 3283 E: shop@louthcraftmark.com

DESIGNYARD - RELOCATION DESIGNYARD, Dublin’s leading jewellery and applied arts gallery, currently based in Cow’s Lane, in Temple Bar will be relocating to 48-49 Nassau Street, just three doors from the bottom of Grafton Street, the premium shopping area of Dublin.

The move to this 2,800 sq foot premises with its six floors, will mark the latest expansion for this Irish owned design house. If you would like to take this opportunity to display and see your work in Dublin, exclusively with DESIGNYARD as your partner representing you and promoting your work, we would be delighted to hear from you.

For Further information contact Ruth Liddle E: ruth@designyard.ie T: 01 4741011 W: www.designyard.ie

12

Opportunities

It could be you!

“The bursary has been a wonderful opportunity to take time to develop, try out and bring to fruition ideas that might not otherwise have been realised.

It has been a great experience to get fully into the joy of making without constraints. I believe that the bursary idea will be seen as one of the best initiatives that the Crafts Council of Ireland has developed and I would encourage anyone interested in deepening their work to apply for it” Joe Hogan (Basketmaker), joint winner Bursary ‘06

The Crafts Council of Ireland Bursary 2007 is open for applications.

Closing Date: Friday 31st August 2007

The application form, further information and the mandatory CV layout is available to download from the Crafts Council website at www.ccoi.ie or by post from: Hilary Morley T: 091 528524 E: hmorley@esatclear.ie IT IS ADVISABLE TO READ THE FORM CAREFULLY AND ALLOW PLENTY OF TIME TO FILL IT OUT.

What is the Crafts Council of Ireland Bursary?

The Crafts Council of Ireland Bursary will be awarded to support and recognise the achievements of professional craftspeople in the creative development of their craft, which will lead to new opportunities in their practice.

How much is it worth?

In 2007 the Bursary Scheme has a fund of €20,000. The full €20,000 may be given as a single bursary to an individual, or divided between two or three awardees.

What is the purpose of the Bursary Scheme?

This is an award that is focused on recognition of past performance and future creative development. Its essential purpose is to release the craftsperson from their usual commitments so that they can invest in creative development of their professional practice.

Who can apply?

Full-time craftspeople

• • • •

who who who who

have operated a business based on their craft for a minimum of 5 years are not in receipt of funding for this proposal from any other source are registered with CCoI are Tax Compliant

Rules pertaining to use of Bursary monies

Monies can be used to benefit and develop creativity of the craftsperson e.g:

1. Acquiring additional skills, training and further learning (funding appropriate recognised third level courses, masterclasses, mentors, field experts etc.)

2.

3.

Please note: you must be in receipt of the course place in order to be eligible for an award.

Travel and associated costs for travelling abroad to pursue additional skills, education or research Research (materials, technology, practices)

Monies cannot be used for 1.

2.

3.

4.

Capital expenditure on equipment or property Rent of premises Funding of solo exhibitions Funding of samples to launch new product lines

"The Bursary is your chance to finance time/materials to do something hard to otherwise justify. My advice is to read all the questions on the forms very carefully and know exactly what you would do with the award money.... it should be for something that may extend your career in a new yet logical direction" Denis Brown, joint winner Bursary ‘06 Images: Denis Brown, Calligrapher Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan, Joe Hogan, Basketmaker Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan, Liam Flynn, Woodturner Photo: Brendan Landy

13

Opportunities

Education Trainer Sought for CCoI Goldsmithing and Jewellery Design and Production Course CCoI’s Design and Production Courses in Ceramics and Jewellery, established in 1990 and 1993 respectively to address the Irish craft industry’s need for high quality technical training, have over the years evolved to become internationally significant. Both are now two-year 88-week intensive courses concentrating on design and production skills, and as a result industry entry and retention levels of graduates are consistently extremely high.

The Crafts Council of Ireland is currently inviting tenders for the service contract of Trainer to its Goldsmithing and Jewellery Design and Production Course. This is a two-year fixed term contract covering the period September 2007 to July 2009.

Contract Objective:

Using CCoI’s course outline, the Contractor will be required to further develop and supply a dynamic training programme and training for a cohort of trainees in the skills of the standards required for the commercial production of high quality designed and manufactured jewellery, as per CCoI’s training mission: to enable its graduates to pursue successful careers in the field of Goldsmithing, thus raising the standard of design and craftsmanship in Ireland.

If interested in tendering for this contract, please contact: Sharon Rollston, CCoI Education Programme Manager, Tel: 056 776 1804 or email sharon@ccoi.ie for further details.

CCoI 2nd Level Programme Initiative CCoI seeks mentors for Student Enterprise Awards Programme The CCoI is partnering with Kilkenny CEB (County Enterprise Board) to help nurture tomorrow’s crafts businesses

CCoI is currently seeking craftspeople interested in mentoring transition year students participating in Kilkenny County Enterprise Board’s Student Enterprise Awards Programme.

The Student Enterprise Awards (SEA) is a country-wide programme culminating in a National Final in May each year.The SEA Programme offers students the opportunity to take a business from the idea stage, through market research to production, selling, record keeping, management and reporting. Participation in the programme encourages students to consider becoming entrepreneurs in the future, and the Crafts Council is piloting an initiative offering support to those students developing craft businesses under the scheme.

We are seeking people interested in mentoring students on product design and development, and who:

• • • •

Run their own craft business Have excellent communication skills Have strong design ability allied to good making skills Preferably have experience in working with groups.

The project will require up to a 10 hour commitment in Jan/Feb ’08. Mentoring sessions will take place either in the craftsperson’s studio or in the participating schools, therefore preference will be given to craftspeople living within a 30 mile radius of Kilkenny.

For further information contact: Sharon Rollston, Education Programme Manager,T: 056 776 1804, E: sharon@ccoi.ie

14

Opportunities

Craft in the Classroom Would you like to help deliver crafts projects in primary schools?

CCoI’s Craft in the Classroom project trains craftspeople in designing and delivering creative crafts projects for children, as well as raising the profile of craft in primary schools.

An information day for interested craftspeople will be held on Wednesday 19th September in Enniscorthy Teachers Centre. Please note attendance is mandatory for craftspeople wishing to be considered for selection for the residencies.

Following this event, participants will be invited to apply for the Residency projects. Successful applicants will be required to attend two training days on Saturday 10th November and Saturday 24th November. This training aims to build working partnerships between craftspeople and teachers, enabling collaboration in designing and implementing classroom projects.

The school residencies will start in early 2008. Craftspeople will be paid a fee of €40 per hour for both preparatory work and workshop facilitation.

For further information on this project see article on page 6 and visit www.ccoi.ie.

If you wish to attend the information day, please contact Amanda on T: 353 56 7761804 or E: amanda@ccoi.ie to request a registration form.

Research Missions Financial assistance towards visiting shows

PORTFOLIO If you want to research an event/show in 2007/2008 and want to avail of assistance with costs, apply

now

Closing date: 30th November 2007 For further information and applications forms 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 of the CCoI website for listings of design Museums/Craft Fairs & Exhibitions in Europe.

Apply now to be part of the Crafts Council of Ireland’s digital directory of leading Designer-Makers The Closing date: 28th August 2007

PORTFOLIO is selected by an international advisory panel and is promoted both nationally and internationally to

buyers, collectors, commissioners and gallery owners.

For an application form contact: CCoI T: 056 7761804 E: info@ccoi.ie W: www.ccoi.ie

For further information contact:

Ann Dack, Project Manager T: 087 6490463

15

Opportunities

50% Scheme

Get 50% of the total cost towards developing a new product Closing date: 30th November 2007 “the award gave her time to think and develop her ideas...”

For further information and applications forms go to: www.ccoi.ie or contact: Helen Loughran T: 048 30833605 E: helen@ccoi.ie

Making Changes: Contemporary Craft in Northern Ireland

Ormeau Baths Gallery [ 3rd - 30th August 2007 ] Craft Northern Ireland’s major exhibition of contemporary craft opens to the public at Ormeau Baths Gallery on 2nd August 2007.

Making Changes: Contemporary Craft in Northern Ireland represents three important areas of contemporary craft currently

created in Northern Ireland - from signature practice to innovative and ground-breaking research in the Applied Arts.

The exhibition has three sections:

Method in the Making presents work from 9 of the finest individual designer-makers in Northern Ireland reflecting different mediums of contemporary practice.

Re-inventing Linen examines and explores new definitions of our ideas of this traditional Irish fabric through time.

Contemporary Souvenir presents new academic research as a series of working models and manifestations that challenge the viewer’s notions of souvenir and Irish kitsch.

Making Changes: Contemporary Craft in Northern Ireland is curated by Megan Johnston, Karen Fleming and Trish Bedford.

Visit www.craftni.org/events for more information on this exhibition and other craft events taking place across Northern Ireland in August 2007.

Making Changes will also tour to Millennium Court Arts Centre, Portadown during the month of September.

Making Changes is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure and the University of Ulster.

16

Opportunities

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

Dates for your Diary *Please note: The Sept/Oct issue of Stopress will be published on 14th September 2007. Please forward all submissions by 14th August 2007.

CCoI OPPORTUNITY DIARY DATES

BY/ON/CURRENTLY/TBC*

Portfolio 07

by

28th August 2007

Bursary

by

31st August 2007

Information Day

on

19th September 2007

Research Missions

by

30th November 2007

50% Scheme

by

30th November 2007

Craft in the Classroom

17

Opportunities

NATIONAL CRAFT GALLERY (NCG) EXHIBITIONS 2007 For 2007 NCG programme contact ncg@ccoi.ie or log onto www.ccoi.ie

NCG, Castle Yard, Kilkenny CCoI Goldsmithing and Jewellery

on

19th July - 6th August 2007

A Life in Colour

on

11th August - 7th October 2007

The Light Fantastic:

on

11th August - 30th September 2007

Design & Skills Course

Irish Stained Glass Art

INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR DATES 2007 IJL www.jewellerylondon.com 2nd - 5th September 2007 Maison et Objet 7th - 11th September 2007 Top Drawer 9th - 11th September 2007 Premiere Vision 18th - 21st September 2007 100% Design 20th - 23rd September 2007 www.100percentdesign.co.uk Origin The London Craft Fair at Somerset House (formerly Chelsea Craft Fair) 2nd - 7th October and 9th - 14th October 2007 www.craftsonline.org.uk SOFA, Chicago 2nd - 4th November 2007

(Financial assistance is available to visit any of the above shows - see CCoI Research Missions programme on pg 14)

SHOWS IN IRELAND Futura Fair

29th - 31st July 2007

Fรกilte Ireland Dublin Horse Show

8th - 12th August 2007

Autumn Gift Fair

26th - 28th August 2007

Plan Expo

8th - 11th November 2007

Art Ireland

16th - 18th November 2007

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

John ffrench

18

Advertisements FOR SALE 1 x Hofman Tufting Gun

VML 16/98 plus a box of yarn tunnels and gun spares. 1 x TS 120 Carpet Shearing Machine. 1 x MS 40 Carpet Carving Machine with MS 40-A vacuum equipment. Frame 2m x 4m. All in mint condition.

For further information contact John T: 087 7993337 E: info@killarneyweavers.com

Female Display Mannequin

(beech wood neck cap, washable cream cover over bust and beech wood finished base - adjustable height). Hague linker. Various quantities and colours of Kilcarra Mohair and of Shetland (2/9.1NM), great for felting. For further information contact Cécile T: 00 44 (0) 777 3396 140 or E: happychapo@aol.com

Woodmizer Band Saw ,

28"throat, petrol engine cuts 16ft logs. Weinig 7 head (1 universal, 2 tilt) molding machine. 24" planer thickniser. 2 head multico tennaner.

Dewalt radial arm saw. 28-35 KVA Lister genny. Watkins crosscut including 16ft roler banch. Watkins 71/2" cut rip saw. For further information contact Pat M: 086 3279840 T: 051 377142

Restored 19th Century Chapel - light, beautiful space

- ideal as gallery or studio (for design, art, dance, workshops) on a scenic coastal route in Killoveenoge, Bantry, Co Cork.

For further information see www.charlesmccarthy.com or www.seandaly.com

Ceramic Equipment - “Kiln and Furnaces UK” front loading 8 cu. ft. electric kiln. Fully automatic programmable controller with motorised top opening flue and separate watchdog over temperature cutout (2004). Little used, in

immaculate condition. Shelves and some props included. € 8000 new.

Slip casting machine consisting of fibreglass tank on wheels with motorised mixer/pump/dispenser.

Assorted workbenches and shelving, selection of quality US moulds from Duncan, Gare etc., a large selection of ceramic/pottery reference books.

For further information contact Richard M: 087 9083410 T: 091 574991

16ft 3 kiln electric runs off sin-

gle phase firecraft toploading € 1500.

Opperman Pugmill € 250, Extruder € 120. Wheel Ratcliffe € 900. For further information contact Anita T: 056 7728804

Modern Illuminated Glass Jewellery Display Case

36”H x 40”L x 17”D (cost new appr. € 1,250) € 500 ono. Diffused Light Wall for displaying stained glass: 6’ x 3’ x 7”d with adjustable supports and hangers € 150 ono. Large glasssheet storage rack in 3 separable sections Overall size:7’0”L x 5’9”h x 2’6”d. € 125 ono. FURNITURE BARGAIN: Combination of floor-standing units, With display/work surface 30” high (6 cupboards, inc. corner unit, plus 3 matching shelf units). Mahogany finish. Suit office, shop or studio. € 250 ono complete.

Large selection of half-price lampshade fittings (harps, galleries, vase caps, chain and ceiling fittings, finials, thread-converters etc.) Collection only. For further information contact Methuselah Stained Glass, Drimoleague, Co. Cork T: Ann or Geoffrey at 028 31723 E: methuselahglass@eircom.net

Double bench polishing motor . No vacuum. Some mops.

€ 200 ono. All will need to be collected For further information contact Fiona T: 086 840 5216 E: fionathornton2001@eircom.net

Dust extractor : Felder AF22, 2

(400l)bags hung in hinged frames, mobile unit, takes 120 & 80 mm hoses, single phase, € 900 ono.

For further information contact Tom T: 087 22 49 625

Yarn stock clearance

- various quantities and fibre mixes of mohair, wool, merino wool, metallics and fancy yarns. For further information contact Amanda on T: 086 0634634 E: info@amanda-daunt.com

Passap Electronic 6000 knitting machine , immaculate

condition € 800 o.n.o. For further information contact Paula T: 086 8257589 E: ishka@eircom.net

“Glimakra” Standard loom . 135 cms, countermarch

tie-up with raddle, double warp beam and fly shuttle. Warping Mill.

Vertical floor model 1.88 m high and 4 m circumference. Some tools and yarn. Price € 3,000 ono. For further information contact T: 065 7087153 E: mandrquinn@iol.ie

40 x 12.5 kg bags 1117M Buff Stoneware at € 5.90 per bag. Fireclay based, stoneware body for domestic ware. Throws well, turns easily. Plastic, strong and reliable. For further information contact Andrea T: 085 7317501 or 059 9724789

WANTED

Second Hand Slabroller for Pottery 2ft width. Contact Brenda T: 086 1080738 E: busy_bee@eircom.net

STUDIO SPACE

Beautiful, secluded two bedroom

furnished cottage in West Cork . Set in 3 acres of woodland

with stream. Comes with spacious studio/workshop, would suit Craft /artist/sculptor. Available for long let from mid September 07 end July 08. € 700 p.c.m. Contact Barbara or Damon T: 027 63473 M: 086 1005457

Studio 7 miles from Kilkenny , on the craft trail

includes retail shop. 1300sq ft two floors, concrete ground floor 800sq ft, wooden second floor 500sq ft, building only 7 years old. For further information contact Anita T: 056 7728804

Bridge street studios , 97 Bridge Street, Dundalk. Very reasonable rent. Includes access to 12 cubic ft kiln. Computer and broadband. For further information contact Joanne Mc Kenna info@joannemckenna.com T: 042 9351712

OPPORTUNITIES

Electric kiln , 4 cubic ft or the nearest size. Able to fire to 1300' celcius, stoneware firings. Also interested to buy gas firing kiln.

Contact Sinead on 087 1359635 Jewellers Ultrasonic cleaning machine in good

working order. Contact T: 01 2981275

Soap Making and Candle Making tutors required

by Louth Craftmark for courses running Autumn 2007. For further

19 information contact Sarah Daly, Craft Development Officer, Louth Craftmark, Quayside Business Park, Mill Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth T: + 353 (0)42 939 6943 E: sarahdaly@craftmark.ie

New and exciting product ranges wanted for the Market House, Blacklion, Co. Cavan . The Market House

has been in existence for 6 years as a tourist information point and a craft shop and is situated in the hometown of Celebrity Chef Neven Maguire. For further information contact T: 071 9853941 E: markethouse1@hotmail.com

Christmas Craft Trail: Call for Submissions Wexford Arts Centre invites submissions from craft artists to exhibit in the Christmas Craft Trail from 23rd November to 23rd December 2007. Interested applicants are asked to submit an up to date CV, and examples of work to date i.e. documentation in the form of 10 jpegs, CD/DVD/CD Rom. Full details for each image are required. Closing date for submissions is 5p.m. Friday 9th September 2007. For further information please contact Catherine T: 053 9123764 E: catherine @wexfordartscentre.ie Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford

Wanted Craftspeople, Sculptors , Artists, Potters to

exhibit in New Gallery opening in prime location, over retail unit, in Newbridge, Co, Kildare. Commission basis. All work that is hand crafted is required. For further information contact E: deirdreray@msn.com

Waterford Homecrafts Co-op is looking for new members to participate in their annual exhibitions. For further information contact Secretary Ann Camon T: 051 852317 M: 086 6069699

Advertisements STANDS AVAILABLE

Link! The New Start Up Business Network - is an

initiative of the Dublin City Enterprise Board which is designed to provide access to advice in areas such as marketing, finance, recruitment, property rental, VAT returns and taxation for smaller and start-up businesses. For further information contact Miriam E: link@dceb.ie T: 086 234 2789 W: www.dceb.ie Early booking is recommended as places

on this exciting programme will be limited

PLACEMENTS/JOB OPPORTUNITIES Joseph Walsh - designer maker

of contemporary fine collectible furniture. The studio is currently accepting applications for the following positions: Production Manager Design Technician Furniture Maker Assistant Furniture Maker If you wish to apply for any of the above positions please forward your Curriculum Vitae to: Frances McDonald, Studio Manager, Joseph Walsh Studio, Fartha, Riverstick, Co Cork. E: frances@josephwalshbespoke.com W: www.josephwalshbespoke.com

WORK WANTED Student with 2 years experience in Ceramics

(Post Grennan Mill Craft School, Thomastown) looking for work in Ceramic Pottery Studio, anywhere in Ireland from mid July - Responsible and hard working. Contact Peter T: 0048506675999) E: pszczula@yahoo.co.uk

Designer Arts and Crafts, Natural Health/Beauty Fair - Sunday 11th November 2007 . Celtic Ross

Hotel, Rosscarbery, Co Cork. Open to the public 10.30 am - 6pm.

Stands Available - 6ft x 2ft tables wall tables € 140 Centre Tables € 110. For further information contact Jennie White T: 023 22868 or 086 170 3635

The Cloughjordan Arts Festival is hosting a crafts fair

on the meadow in Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary on Saturday, 29th July, from 10am-4pm. The fair will host 20-30 exhibitors. The festival celebrates sustainable living and expression through the arts.

For further information contact Liz O’Shea T: 087 6661337 E: cloughjordanartsfestival@yahoo.co.uk.

Craft Fair at The Linenhall Arts Centre, Castlebar, Co Mayo will be held on Saturday 8th December with application forms available in September. For further information contact Alex Nicholson T: 087 6320705 alecman@eircom.net or Brendan Murphy 087 6987340 murphyshalfacre@eircom.net

EXHIBITIONS “Garden Lovers” is the intriguing title for Etain Hickey’s group exhibition which opened on June 23rd and continues until 28 July 2007 at her Gallery in Clonakilty, West Cork. For further information contact Etain Hickey Collection, 40 Ashe Street, Clonakilty, Co Cork T: 023 21479 E: etainhickey@eircom.net W: www.rossmorepottery.com

Exhibition of Textile Art

in the Courtyard Craft Shop Schull during Schull Arts week 15th to 21st August. The theme Ocean Tied will be explored by leading Cork based artists. The Cork Textiles Network can be contacted at E: ctn@oceanfree.net

The Mill Theatre Gallery, Dundrum Town Centre

is delighted to host an Exhibition of Paintings and Drawings by Eve Parnell entitled “Irish Skies 7th July - 2nd August 2007. Open Mon - Sat 10am-6pm.For further information contact Aoife O’Toole The Mill Theatre T: 01 296934 E: aoife@milltheatre.com W: www.milltheatre.com

WORKSHOPS/ COURSES WIND (Wales Ireland Network of craft Design)

is a joint Initiative between Carlow LEADER Rural Development Company Ltd. and the Craft Forum in Wales, part funded by Interreg 111A. This is a craft enterprise development programme aimed at targeting supports to craft workers in the following key areas: • • • •

• • • •

Mentoring Network Development Training in Design Training in Sales and Marketing Techniques Training in Display and Presentation Skills Collective Marketing (Joint and Individual Promotional Literature) Web Presence Joint Exhibitions

For further information contact Edel Galvin, WIND Programme, Carlow LEADER Rural Development Company Ltd. McGrath Hall, Station Road, Bagenalstown, Co Carlow T: 059 9720733

20

Advertisements Advanced Glass Bead Making Course By Isobelle

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17th & 18th August. Cost € 390 including lunch and materials. For further information contact Ruzica Ruane T: 012352156 E: studio@cadenzaglassbeads.com

Creative Week in Handcrafts and Culinary Skills including toy, jewellery

making, baking and other activities.

Age 6-17 boys & girls 2nd-5th July 10am-12.30pm. Week of Traditional Teddy Bear Making. Everyone will design a fully jointed bear treasured for life. Age 7-17 boys & girls.

20th- 23rd August 10am-12.30pm.

Book now: info@irishbears.com info@silverbearcentre.com T: 049 9523461 M: 087 7610537

Glass Bead Making Workshops , Cadenza Glass Bead

Studio, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin.

Beginners Half Day 09:00-13:00, € 110. Beginners Full Day 09:3018:30, € 195. Glass Vessels, Shell and Hollow Bead Workshop

- learn more about blowing a variety of distinctive glass jewellery pieces.

Introduction 09:30-15:30, € 145.

Advanced 09:30-16:00, € 165. Max 4 students per class. Materials and refreshments included. Workshops run each Thur/Fri/Sat/Sun between 20th July to 15th August. For further information contact Ruzica Ruane T: 012352156 E: studio@cadenzaglassbeads.com

Waterford Classes is proud

to present exclusive glass blowing courses at the renowned Waterford Crystal Factory. 10th - 13th, 17th - 20th and 24th - 27th September. For further information visit www.waterfordclasses.com

STONEMAD Weekend

Workshops in Stone Carving, Building in Stone, Hemp Plastering, Basket Making and Rustic Chair Making. Holycross, Co Tipperary.

Throughout summer months. For further contact Philip or Liz T: 0504 43497, 086 2532474 E: stonemad2@eircom.net W: www.stonemad.ie

Surface design and textile printing A six-week introduction

course starting in September, at LONGBORD printing studio, 54 Kenilworth Square, Rathgar, Dublin 6.

This is a course that will introduce you to the fabulously exciting skill of textile printing, covering the basics skills and thinking behind surface design as well as different printing techniques. Tutor : Liz Nilsson, Textile artist and designer. For further information contact Liz T: 086 8307294 or nilssonliz@yahoo.ie

Glass bead making (2 day course) 28th & 29th July 2007.

Working on an oxygen/propane torch using colourful glass rods from Italy and make a number of beads after learning the basic techniques of forming, shaping and decorating with hot glass. This class is open for beginners and those who wish to advance their basic beadmaking skills.

Cost € 180 includes lunch, materials and use of tools. Derryaun crafts workshop- Summer

workshops 2007 Fri 20th July,

Needle felt a picture Tues 7th Aug Basic jewellery making Fri 10th Aug. Needle felted figures Fri 24th Aug. Bead weaving - Beaded beads. Fri 31st Aug. Natural and synthetic dyeing For further information contact Suzie Sullivan T: 098 21888 E: suzie@derryauncrafts.com W: www.derryauncrafts.com

FÉILE NA FELITE Presented by Feltmakers Ireland at Turlough House,

National Museum of Ireland, Castlebar, Saturday 18th August 2007. Come and experience the magic of feltmaking in the beautiful

setting of the Museum of Country Life in Castlebar, Co Mayo. Two mini workshops, 11.30 - 13.00 and 14.30 - 16.00, will take place giving participants an opportunity to learn a variety of feltmaking techniques.

For further information contact the Museum T: 094 90 31751 or E: educationtph@museum.ie

Web & Graphic Design

- all materials supplied.

samples of work and we would be

Places are limited so please book early

Marilyn Moore-Fibre Artist: Twinning with Wire Sat August 25th & Sun 26th 2007 , Mulranny, Co

Mayo Fees: € 180 Includes: Tuition, lunch, train pick up at Castlebar or Westport train station. Kit fee: € 20 Marilyn Moore is a renowned Fibre artist in the USA. She will be teaching on a Beadventure in the West of Ireland and invites you to participate in the workshop portion of her tour to Ireland. www.marilynmoore.net For further information contact Suzie Sullivan E:suzie@derryauncrafts.com T: 098 21888

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

dynamite :: we think with you :: Design Consultants offering a

design, web and print management

service to craftspeople. Special rates for all start-up businesses.

Contact Tom T: 087 2889357 E: info@dynamite.ie

W: www.dynamite.ie

Service We can either turn your

existing website into an e-commerce site or design a new site, with or

without an e-commerce facility, that represents your work at its best, is

easy to navigate and is optimised for search engines. Please visit our

website www.mckeedesign.co.uk for happy to talk to you about any

graphic or web design requirements.

T: +44 (0)28 9756 5681

E: sohaila@mckeedesign.co.uk www.mckeedesign.co.uk

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

Specialist small delivery service for craftspeople and

artist. Fully insured. For further information contact Katrina T: 086 2327541

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 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

21 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 T: +44 (0) 28 90843532 or E: 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. Includes crafter’s forum.

Ships all over Ireland. For further information contact E: info@craftsupplies.ie

Advertisements 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 suzie@derryauncrafts.com 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: www.adorn.gencodesigns.com

The Crafts Directory 07/08 If you want your crafts

shown nationwide in craft, tourist and shopping points then contact us today. You can showcase your crafts directly to the consumer through this new high quality, full-colour, shopping style directory. Published once a year, there are only a few weeks left until print, so don’t miss the boat! For further information contact Mike T: 018049844 E: Mike@M2Media.ie

Wanted Off cuts of coloured glass. Will arrange transport.

Contact Natalie Allen T: 086 352 2084

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

AAT Our services include

accountancy for both sole traders and companies and in particular start up business. We also provide IT support, software development and web site development. We specialise in developing customised software to aid business access real time information at the touch of a button.

For more information contact Brendan or Kevin T: 1850 930390 W: www.aat.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

BUSINESS & FINANCE 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

The Light Fantastic: Irish Stained Glass Ar t

22

Exhibition Snapshots - NCG

S eo m r a & Q u i lt A rt 2 0 @ N C G

Ann Fahy, textiles discussing her work with ar tist Ann Mulrooney at the opening of Quilt Ar t 20

Kate Fine, designer talking with Helena Gorey (Curator) at the opening of Seomra

A visitor at the National Craft Gallery viewing Quilt Ar t 20

Young visitors at the Seomra opening

A visitor at the National Craft Galler y viewing Quilt Ar t 20

Frances McDonald and guests at Seomra

Alison Boydell, Mary Boydell and friend at the opening of Quilt Ar t 20

Kathleen Moran (Kilkenny Design Centre) and ar tist Ann Mulrooney at the opening of Quilt Ar t 20

23

National Craft Gallery - News

CCoI’s Goldsmithing & Jewellery Design & Skills Course

A Life in Colour John ffrench, Irish Ceramic Artist, A Retrospective Exhibition 1951-2007

Continued from page 24

The Crafts Council of Ireland’s Goldsmithing and Jewellery Design and Skills Course is the only course of its kind in the country. For two intensive years, a select group of students are trained in the age-old skills of master craftsmen.

Combining these skills with fresh, experimental designs, these young artists have made some spectacular jewellery.

This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity for visitors to see the full range of work of our future craftspeople. It is also a fantastic opportunity for the graduates, showcasing their pieces in Ireland’s foremost gallery of contemporary craft.

Running for just over two weeks, the graduate showcase always proves to be one of the most anticipated events in the National Craft Gallery’s inspiring exhibitions programme. Jewellery Trainer Jane Huston puts it perfectly: “It’s always exciting and fascinating to see the graduates’ final exhibition, their work never fails to amaze and delight us and themselves .”

The Light Fantastic: Irish Stained Glass Art Continued from page 24

Ireland’s wonderful tradition of stained glass art stretches back over centuries.

Since the Arts & Crafts and Neo-Celtic movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, we have been renowned worldwide for our pioneering artists and their exceptional creations.

Thankfully today, Irish Stained Glass Art is as vibrant and innovative as ever.This new exhibition in the National Craft Gallery showcases the work of our leading glass artists. Focusing on the use of stained, painted and etched glass in an interior setting, visitors to the gallery will be amazed at just how contemporary this traditional art form can be.

The Light Fantastic: Irish Stained Glass Art is curated by Mary Boydell, President of the Glass Society of Ireland, and Audrey Whitty, Curator of Applied Arts at the National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks.

Continued from page 24

Coveted by collectors the world over, John ffrench’s stunning ceramic works are instantly recognisable for their distinctive bright colours and unusual shapes.

Based abroad for most of his life, distant locations such as India, Italy and America have influenced his style. His hand-built, colourful and non-utilitarian pots have a Mediterranean feel. Miro, Matisse and the cubist paintings of Braque and Picasso also liberated him from the constraints of tradition. From his earliest days, John ffrench’s work has been far removed from the ‘little brown pots’ coming out of Ireland and Great Britain.

It is appropriate that this exhibition takes place in Kilkenny, as it was there that ffrench did his earliest Irish work. He introduced a new and exciting modernist style of pottery into Ireland in the 1950s. But it wasn’t always appreciated: Commentators said his designs were ‘too obstinately asymmetrical’ and ‘almost wickedly provocative’. Even Myles na Gopaleen had his say, describing his pieces as ‘tortured ashtrays at three guineas apiece’.

For over 50 years, new vessels and dishes covered with brightly coloured patterns have continued to pour forth from this inspirational artist. John ffrench’s pottery has brought joy to many and, for the first time ever, his lifetime’s work has been gathered together under one roof.

Curated by Peter Lamb, A Life in Colour is the Crafts Council of Ireland’s first lifetime achievement exhibition. It opens during Kilkenny Arts Festival and runs from 11th August to 7th October 2007.

For further information on the National Craft Gallery: T: 056 7761804 E: ncgpress@ccoi.ie W: www.ccoi.ie The National Craft Gallery 2007 opening times are: January - March: Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm (Closed Sunday)

April - December: Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm, Sunday 11am - 6pm

Participating Artists: Donna Coogan, Debbie Dawson, Nora Duggan, Eva Kelly, Peadar Lamb, Mary Mackey, Sandra Miley, Patrick Muldowney, Killian Schurmann, Peter Young, George Walsh and Elke Westen.

Seomra & Quilt Art 20 openings

Two new exhibitions in the National Craft Gallery have proven to be very popular with visitors since the day they opened.

On Saturday 16th June, both Quilt Art 20 and Seomra opened their doors to the public, and the response was wonderful.Visitors wandered between both galleries and had the chance to meet artists from two wonderful exhibitions. Encouragingly, sales were healthy on the day and the red dots have continued to appear since then. Seomra showcases contemporary Irish work for the interiors while Quilt Art 20 is a wonderful display of quilt art by artists from Ireland, Europe and the USA. Quilt Ar t 20

24

Upcoming Exhibitions - NCG A Life In Colour

John ffrench, Irish Ceramic Artist, A Retrospective Exhibition 1951-2007 National Craft Gallery 11th August - 7th October 2007

CCoI’s Goldsmithing & Jewellery Design & Skills Course National Craft Gallery

The National Craft Gallery is delighted to showcase the work of graduates of this internationally renowned jewellery course.

Continued on page 23

The Crafts Council of Ireland honours the great pioneer of Irish contemporary ceramics. This first ever lifetime-achievement, solo exhibition traces a remarkable career that has lasted over half a century.

Continued on page 23

The Light Fantastic: Irish Stained Glass Art National Craft Gallery

A traditional art form in a contemporary setting, this unique exhibition of Stained Glass Art celebrates Ireland’s proud history and today’s inspirational artists.

11th August - 30th September 2007 Continued on page 23

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 Sept/Oct 2007, Stopress is 14th August 2007. Publication date is 14th September 2007.

Advertising in Stopress is free and is welcomed.Submissions for articles from craftspeople and those interested in craft are also always welcome - please contact: Communications Dept.

Crafts Council of Ireland 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

newsletter design: www.dynamite.ie

19th July - 6th August 2007