Contents Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter 15 News and Reviews P2 New Strategic Plan P4 Pricing Policy P6 Craft in the Classroom 3rd Level Awards 2007 P7 CCoI Goldsmithing & Jewellery Design & Skills Course Craft Community News P8 Growing your own business New Shop/Gallery in Belfast New Kilkenny Gallery Foras na Gaeilge Grants Limerick Ceramics Workshop Opportunities P9 Selling into Department Stores 3rd Level Awards 07 New Postgraduate Courses P 10 Hunt Museum - Side by Side New Outlets for Craft RDS National Crafts Competition CCoI Bursary 07 P 11 Feltmakers - High Tech Textiles Research Missions Portfolio Master Gem Stone Dates for Diary P 12 Dates for Diary Advertisements P 14 Advertisements Exhibitions & Events P 18 Exhibition Snapshots - Wild Geese P 19 Exhibitions - NCG P 20 NCG - Upcoming Exhibitions Minister Micheál Martin Launches New CCoI Strategy for Craft Sector Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin, TD officially launched the Crafts Council of Ireland’s new Strategic Plan 2007 - 2009 in Dublin on 24th April, 2007 The plan, which places the consumer at the centre of Crafts Council of Ireland’s strategy was developed in consultation with a wide range of industry influencers including craftspeople, guilds, associations and networks, retailers, other agencies and funding bodies. It was also informed and influenced by the market and consumer research which has been undertaken by the CCoI over the past 18 months. “The Crafts Council of Ireland has rightly put the consumer firmly at the centre of its thinking in this strategy. I particularly welcome this emphasis. By studying the preferences and buying habits of consumers, craftspeople can identify promising business opportunities,” said Minister Martin. “The Irish crafts sector produces first rate, highly collectible work. As global culture becomes more and more homogenised, the value of the distinctive, the individual and the local increases, thus creating an expanding and thriving market for Irish crafts.” Gerry Wycherley, Chairman, Crafts Council of Ireland and Minister Micheál Martin TD at the launch of the CCoI Strategic Plan 2007-09 QUILT ART 20 P. 2 0 SEOMRA P. 1 9 Continued on page 2
Minister Micheál Martin Launches New CCoI Strategy for Craft Sector
Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin, TD officially launched the Crafts Council of Ireland’s new Strategic Plan 2007- 2009 in Dublin on 24th April, 2007
The plan, which places the consumer at the centre of Crafts Council of Ireland’s strategy was developed in consultation with a
wide range of industry influencers including craftspeople, guilds, associations and networks, retailers, other agencies and funding
bodies. It was also informed and influenced by the market and consumer research which has been undertaken by the CCoI over
the past 18 months.
“The Crafts Council of Ireland has rightly put the consumer firmly at the centre of its thinking in this strategy. I particularly
welcome this emphasis. By studying the preferences and buying habits of consumers, craftspeople can identify promising business
opportunities,” said Minister Martin. “The Irish crafts sector produces first rate, highly collectible work. As global culture becomes
more and more homogenised, the value of the distinctive, the individual and the local increases, thus creating an expanding and
thriving market for Irish crafts.”
Gerry Wycherley, Chairman, Crafts Council of Ireland and Minister Micheál Mar tin TD at the launch of the CCoI Strategic Plan 2007-09
QUILT ART 20 P.20SEOMRA P.19
Continued on page 2
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
News and Reviews 2
New Plan Addresses Commercial IssuesRaised by Fast Changing Marketplace
The national and global marketplace has changed dramatically in recent years
- at a pace never before experienced. The aim of the CCoI’s Strategic Plan 2007
- 2009 is to use its knowledge of both the market and the consumer to equip
the craft sector with the information and skills necessary to compete and pros-
per in this dynamic environment.
Gerry Wycherley, Chairman, Crafts Council of Ireland said “The onset of mass
production and the phenomenon of the global brand have seen the explosion
of a new consumer onto the market, one who actively seeks and desires well
designed, unique, authentic and collectable product - craft has huge potential to
explore and exploit this market.To take advantage of this, design and innovation
are now, more than ever, important features of the Irish crafts industry and are
central to its future success. In addition, the importance of marketing Irish craft
is critical to enhancing the commercial craft offer, and plays a leading role in this
strategic vision.” explained Mr Wycherley.
In a practical sense the CCoI Strategic Plan focuses on four key areas:
• New Product Development - encouraging and facilitating greater
development of new products that are market-driven and meet the
needs and expectations of consumers
• Creating consumer awareness - highlighting the image of craft
amongst consumers and developing a greater awareness of the
unique, authentic and contemporary qualities of craft
• Accessibility - working with retailers and craft businesses to increase
the amount and variety of craft products available to the consumer,
and making it easier for the consumer to find and purchase craft
• Craft enterprise - working in partnership with other support
agencies to help develop craft businesses and to improve their skills
“Our research tells us that when consumers see Irish craft they like it - in fact
in our most recent research undertaken by Millward Brown IMS in late January
2007, 87% of women interviewed expressed an interest in purchasing craft,”
explains Nicola Doran, Mainstream Market Manager (see article on page 4 for
more information). “Often consumers are surprised to hear that products are
Irish or that they are made by hand.They also feel that it can be difficult to find
craft in the current retail environment. Thus we have a responsibility to work
with both makers and retailers to ensure that craft is easier to find and easier
to purchase.There is so much exciting and contemporary craft out there from
makers all over the county - we need to increase its profile and let consumers
know where they can purchase it.”
The new strategy has resulted in the development of a range of new projects
and initiatives many of which will be announced in the coming months - so keep
an eye on the opportunities section of Stopress and on the CCoI web site.The
overall objective of the strategy - and the individual initiatives - is to increase the
profitability of craft businesses and to increase the number of craftspeople
registered with CCoI over the three years of the plan. The target is to work
towards a 42% increase in turnover for the sector and an increase of 29% in the
number of CCoI registered craft enterprises up to the end of December 2009.
The good news for the sector is that in addition to the substantial investment
being made by CCoI there are also signs of a discernible shift in the attitude of
consumers globally away from the mass produced and towards the more
unique. Consumers are moving away from ‘designer’ and moving towards
‘original design’ and the craft sector is ideally placed to provide the types of
individual, unique and authentic products that consumers are seeking, to enable
them to express their individuality and their personality through what they wear,
how they style their homes and the gifts that they give.
A copy of the CCoI Strategic Plan 2007 - 2009 is available
to download at www.ccoi.ie
Continued from page 1
design and innovation are now, more than ever, important features of the
Irish crafts industry and are central to its future success
we have a responsibility to work
with both makers and retailers
to ensure that craft is easier to
find and easier to purchase
a discernible shift in the attitude of
consumers globally away from the mass
produced and towards the more unique
Minister Micheál Mar tin TD
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
News and Reviews3
Bernardine Hurley, RDS Craft Committee and Vincent O'Shea, NCG
Gerry Murphy, Expo Events and Jean Byrne, CCoI Board Member
David Shaw-Smith CCoI Board Member and Minister Micheál Martin TD
Mary Gallagher, Alison Kay, Ceramics, Gerry Murphy, Expo Events and Laura O'Hagan, Board Member
Gerry Wycherley, Chairman, Crafts Council of Ireland, Sarah Daly, CEO Crafts Council of Ireland with Minister Micheál Mar tin TD and ceramicist Alison Kay
Snapshots from Strategic Plan 2007 - 09 Launch
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
News and Reviews 4
The objectives of this research were:
• To assess levels of interest in purchasing Irish Craft products in
general and across the five key sectors
• To measure awareness levels of Irish Craft products and retailers
• To estimate annual average spend on Irish Craft
• To identify how consumers rate Irish Craft in relation to price,
design and quality for each of the craft sectors
• To identify what consumers are willing to pay for Irish Craft in
each of the craft sectors
• To evaluate how Irish Craft performs relative to ‘competitors’ in
each of the craft sectors
The results will be essential in guiding craft makers and retailers alike
in product and pricing strategy and in informing policy and operational
activity within CCoI.
Summary of Results
Overall the results were very positive for the craft sector with a sizeable
majority of women surveyed expressing an interest in purchasing craft in
the future.
However, it is clear that there is confusion amongst consumers as to what
constitutes Irish craft with many citing companies such as Newbridge
Silverware, Waterford Crystal and designers such as Louise Kennedy and
John Rocha. The good news for the ceramic sector was that many of the
larger pottery companies were well recognised by consumers.
When asked to identify retail outlets where Irish craft could be purchased
replies included Blarney Woolen Mills, Kilkenny Design and Avoca, while
Brown Thomas and Meadows and Byrne were also mentioned. Yet for
some of these outlets consumers perception that they stock Irish craft is
stronger that the actual amount of craft they sell.
Across all sectors, the craft product on display scored better on quality and
design than the non-craft product. It is clear from the research that Irish
consumers are willing to pay a premium for craft products.The words used
to describe craft included handmade, creative and authentic.
Interest in Purchasing
Interest in Irish craft products is very high with 87% citing some level
of interest. It was found to be highest among women aged 45-55 (92%
interested), ABs (92% interested). There was a slight difference regionally
with those interviewed in Dublin more likely to say they were veryinterested compared to those in Cork (47% and 35% respectively).
Interest in purchasing Irish Craft Homewares was highest among the older
respondents (45-55 year olds) and lowest among the 25-34 year olds.
Interest was also higher among ABs than it was among C1s.
Furniture generated the least level of interest with just 1 in 4 claiming
to be very interested. Interest was lowest among the 25-34 year old group,
C1s, those single and with no dependent children.
Jewellery generated the highest level of interest with half of all respondents
claiming to be very interested in buying Irish Craft Jewellery. Interest was
particularly high among 35-44 year olds and those living in Dublin.
Interest in buying Irish fashion seemed to be influenced by age.The oldest
age segment were most interested while the youngest age segment was
least interested. Interest was also higher among those who had purchased
Irish Fashion products in the past. This suggests that lack of awareness of
particular designers could be holding back interest levels.
Interest in buying Irish Craft accessories was high with over 8 in 10
expressing some level of interest. Similar to levels of interest in Jewellery,
interest was highest among the middle age group (35-44 year olds).
Interest was also higher in Dublin with 88% interested compared to 77%
in Cork.
Interest in purchasing Irish Craft Jewellery and Accessories seems to
exceed that of any other sector. Interest is also high in Homewares. And
the results would indicate that there is significant need and opportunity to
influence buyers in the under 45 age group.
Irish consumers are willing to pay
a premium for craft products
Latest Consumer Research - The Inside Story on Pricing
As part of the Crafts Council of Ireland’s policy to gather and disseminate key
market knowledge, so that craftspeople can be kept informed on consumer needs,
market developments and trend information, CCoI commissioned Millward Brown IMS to
undertake market research on Product and Pricing.
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
News and Reviews5
Identifying Craft Producers
Newbridge Silverware, Waterford Crystal and Stephen Pearce Pottery are
‘top of mind’ when respondents think of Irish Craft producers. Louis
Mulcahy and Nicholas Moss Pottery are also well known. Quite a number
of fashion designers were also mentioned such as Louise Kennedy and
John Rocha.
Thus the reality for most consumers is that they are unclear what
constitutes craft and what differentiates it. This would point to a need for
the sector as a whole to better inform consumers as to the benefits of
purchasing craft.
Blarney Woollen Mills, Kilkenny Design Centre and Avoca Handweavers are
seen as the most obvious stores where Irish Craft products can be
purchased. More urban-based stores such as Brown Thomas and Meadows
& Byrne are also considered important - particularly in Cork.
Quality
Rating of Irish Craft products on quality is very high - the average score
out of 10 was 8.42. Ratings were highest among 45-55 year olds (8.74) and
those based in Dublin (8.71). Ratings were also generally higher among
those who had purchased Irish Craft products in the past, particularly
those who had purchased Accessories or Fashion products in the past.
Trigger words
The words most associated with Irish Craft appear to be “Handmade” and
“Creative”. It also seems to conjure up quite strong associations with being
Unique,Authentic and Designer.
Purchasers of Craft
Over 9 in 10 respondents had at sometime made an Irish Craft purchase.
Jewellery products, followed by Homewares were the most frequently
cited purchases. Furniture was the least frequently mentioned product.
Implications
• Interest in buying Irish Craft is very high, and this interest appears
to be largely driven by a desire to buy Irish and support Irish
artists as well as a preference for more unique designs
• While purchasing jewellery and accessories holds the greatest level
of interest for respondents, a majority have purchased homeware
products in the last year
• Interest in fashion and furniture lags slightly behind and this could
partly be driven by a lack of awareness of producers but possibly
also by high price expectations
• Some producers are mistakenly perceived to produce ‘craft’
products .This suggests that consumer understanding of what
“Irish Craft” represents is a confused and would benefit from
more clarity
• Despite this, consumers seem to have a high level of awareness
of craft retailers
• Irish Craft products are generally perceived to be of very
good quality
• In order to appeal to a wider target audience Irish Craft would
benefit from broadening the range and strength of its associations.
Older women tended to be a lot more positive than the youngest
age segment about Irish craft generall.
• Across all sectors, the craft product on display scored better on
quality and design than the non-craft product
• Higher perceptions of quality and design for the craft products are
reflected in higher average figures for ‘willingness to spend’ for the
craft products
• It is interesting to note the differences between Cork and Dublin
respondents. Dublin participants seemed more positive about Irish
Craft generally and more willing to spend on craft products
Over the coming months CCoI will be building the results of this research
into relevant seminars and workshops - please keep an eye on the web site
and future issues of Stopress for more details on these.
For further information on the research please contact [email protected]
interest appears to be largely driven by a desire to buy Irish and support
Irish artists as well as a preference for more unique designs
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
News and Reviews 6
For further information see page 9 in Opportunities section
Craft in the Classroom Phase two of the Primary School Residency Pilot Scheme now complete
Piloted in 2005, in County Cork, Craft in the Classroom trains craftspeople in designingand delivering creative crafts projects for children, as well as raising the profile of craftin primary schools.
Providing craftspeople with:
• Training in devising projects that complement the Primary
School 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
• Promotional support
Providing teachers with:
• Access to highly skilled craftspeople
• Training and support in maximising creative partnerships with craftspeople
• Creative ideas on interpreting the Visual Arts Curriculum
• Funding towards materials costs.
Craftspeople and teachers alike gathered at Kilkenny Education Centre to celebratethe completion of phase two of this excellent pilot project which enables craftspeopleto engage with children using the Primary Visual Arts Curriculum as a tool to bringcreative thinking and making processes into the classroom.
There was great excitement as work from children in schools in counties Kilkenny,Tipperary and Waterford, where this year’s residencies took place, was unveiled for allto examine and admire. Everyone agreed that the experience had been extremelyworthwhile, and were looking forward to their next children’s craft project.
The next issue of Stopress will include a call out to craftspeople interested in participating in the programme when it moves to its new target area (to be confirmed) - meantime enjoy these images of the children’s work.
Visit www.ccoi.ie for more information.
Education
Crafts Council of Ireland Goldsmithing & Jewellery Design & Skills CourseFrom its workshop in Kilkenny’s historic Castle Yard, it trains a new generation of artists. Passing on the age-oldskills of master craftsmen, it produces highly accomplished and disciplined graduates. It’s no wonder the CraftsCouncil of Ireland’s Goldsmithing & Jewellery Design & Skills Course has earned an international reputation.
Established in 1993, the 2-year course is now preparing for the graduation of its seventh intake of trainees. And if previous years areanything to go by, these young jewellers are certain to make a hugeimpression on the industry. Past graduates include people like SelienaCoyle, a lecturer in NCAD , Keith Hennessy, workshop manager inSheeran’s, and Lee Harding and Seamus O’Donoghue, the creative duobehind the successful Da Capo company.
The course has also produced many award winners. Just last yearJerome McCann and Helena Malone won four awards between them atthe RDS National Crafts Competition, taking home almost a third of thetotal prize fund. And Carl Parker followed his 2004 success at the RDSwith success at the UK heats for the Tahitian Pearl Trophy in 2005-6.
These honours are related with pride by Jewellery Trainer Jane Huston.A formidableand inspirational tutor, she has been guiding her students through this intensivecourse for the past 14 years and can tell you, without hesitation, what every singleone of her graduates is now doing.
Jane, a highly skilled jeweller herself, has been in the trade since she left art college.She was running her own manufacturing and design business in Canada when theCrafts Council of Ireland approached her to run their new Jewellery Skills Course.She returned to Ireland in 1993, after 25 years, and expected to be here for just oneor two years, but she’s still going strong, already preparing for the next two yearcourse, which starts in September.
“When the course was first established, the original brief was to make a differenceto the Irish jewellery industry, we’ve way exceeded that brief.” Jane is in no doubtas to the reason behind the phenomenal success of this course: ”We are the onlyhard-core jewellery and goldsmithing course in Ireland. We have many visiting trainers who willingly give their time and knowledge to the trainees. And ourgraduates are disciplined, with a good grounding and very good basic skills.”
As expected, students and tutors alike embrace new technology and the course isconstantly evolving. But this is never at the expense of the core skills. “We don’t dilute what we do, hand skills are of vital importance. If somebody from 300 years ago walked into our workshop they would recognise 60% of our equipment and techniques.”
Indeed, a visit to the workshop leaves you in no doubt as to the emphasis put onhand skills.The young trainees, bent over their benches, intensely hammering, etching,piercing and engraving; the sheer physical effort put into their work is amazing.
Jane is passionate about the need for trainees to learn from previous generations ofjewellers.“This course teaches one of the oldest crafts. Our students are encouragedto visit the Treasury Room in the National Museum to see what they will becomepart of, and many of them are moved by the experience.”
Some of the most respected names in the business work as tutors on the CraftsCouncil’s jewellery course.They are there to pass their skills on to a new generation.Unfortunately this legacy has become undervalued. “We are losing skills that havebeen passed on for generations. This cannot happen if we want to keep the industry alive. It is of vital importance that every generation shares their knowledge.I would hope this new generation of jewellers will give something back. Passing ona skill is worth something.” For the highly-skilled graduates of this course, the possibilities are enormously wide.There are many areas for them to specialise in,
whether it’s mounting, gemstone setting, enamelling, decorative surfaces, working asa gemologist, polisher, silversmith, designer, the list goes on.
Once they finish the course, many young people also choose to go abroad for up toa year, to countries like Germany, Holland, France, Sweden, Finland, Scotland andEngland. “All our graduates are well thought of because of their strong grasp of thecore skills and design ability.” But Jane emphasises that these graduates are not yetfully trained. Our two-year course is long and intense, we offer the equivalent ofthree years in a Goldsmithing college in Europe. But in order to say our graduatesare fully trained they need to work for several years in a leading workshop, eitherat home or abroad, following graduation.”
Demand is always high for the young artists who emerge from the jewellery course.But for the woman who trains them, what makes a good graduate? “Assuming a levelof skill and ability, somebody with good organisational skills, a problem solver and a bit of a lateral thinker, so that when a design doesn’t work out, you can changedirection and make it better. It also does help to have interpersonal skills becausethis is a business where you’re dealing with people.” That is what is expected ofthose who leave the course, but for those who want to join it? “Our trainees includecareer changers, people who have already worked in the trade, university graduatesand some school leavers. Regardless of their qualifications, everybody has to showa strong desire to work in the trade.Whether that’s a school leaver who works ina jewellery shop on a Saturday morning or somebody with a couple of years experience in the industry.”
For those interested in a career in jewellery, it would be worth their while to visit the National Craft Gallery later this summer, where the work of the graduates will be on show from 19th July to 6th August. Because of the quality of work and innovative design on show, the graduate jewellery exhibition is always one of the most anticipated events in the National Craft Gallery’s inspiring exhibitions programme.
The Crafts Council of Ireland’s Goldsmithing & Jewellery Design & Skills Course isopen to all EU residents.The selection process is currently taking place for the nextcourse, which starts in September. The closing date has passed but suitable late applicants will be considered if space is available.
Growing Your Business By DesignThe Donegal Design Directorate has announced the roll-out of the next
phase of its subsidised training programme, aimed at small and micro
businesses in the County.
The forthcoming training programme, beginning on May 17th in Letterkenny consistsof a series of 8 late afternoon workshops along with a one-to-one mentoring session.
To register for the training programme, or to find out more about other DesignDirectorate initiatives, please contact Aisling Lynch, Design Directorate ProgrammeManager on 074 9160735 or email [email protected].
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.
New Shop/Gallery in BelfastCounty Down Crafts will open SPACE CRAFT Shop, Gallery and Exhibition Area on Thursday 24thMay 2007 at the Fountain Centre, College Street, Belfast, just in time to be part of Craftmark’sCRAFT MAP 2007 Open Studios weekend on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th May.
The 280m2 venue at the Fountain Centre is designed to be a focal-point for the commissioning, exhibition, promotion andsale of Craft, Applied Art and Design. SPACE CRAFT SHOP/GALLERY will enable the appreciation and understanding ofCraft,Applied Art and Design and the purchase of work made by new and established Artist/Designer/Makers who dependon sales for the support of their practices.
For further information contact: Jan Irwin, Co-ordinator T: 028 9032 9342 E: [email protected] W: countydowncrafts.com
Limerick Ceramic WorksLimerick Ceramic Works is a brand new facility in the heart of Limerick city.This facility provides workspaceand the use of specialised ceramics equipment to its members, as well as ceramic classes for the public.
The studio was established by three recent graduates from Limerick School of Art and Design, Gemma Dardis, Tania Conroy and Sophie Ivan-Clancy. At the recent opening there was an exhibition of members’ work, which displayed the diversity of the artists and designers who have joined up with the group. This was followed by an exhibition of photography by print artist, Louise Shine who documented the development of this exciting project.
"We decided to set this facility up because we wanted to continue working in ceramics when we finished our degrees.This facility is the first of its kind in the country and isbadly needed in order to help young ceramic artists and designers to get a platform to work from when they finish their studies. There is space for up to fifteen artists/ designers to work in Limerick Ceramic Works at any one time and this takes away the isolation sometimes felt by ceramicists working in their own studios. We set this facility up because we felt we had no-where else to go when we finished college. The goal of this studio is to establish a strong ceramic community in the Limerick area andraise awareness of ceramics as both a design and fine art medium. "
Christian Gehrke, (left) and Aisling Lynch, (right), Design Programme Manager, Donegal County Enterprise Board, at the recent Donegal Design Directorate Visual Identity seminar. Photograph: Liam Sweeney
New Gallery for Kilkenny The search for a venue that successfully combines studio and gallery space can be a challenging one, but the artists John Walsh and Colette O'Brien have found a suitable space in the spectacular landscape of northCounty Kilkenny.
Their new venture, the Hillside Art Gallery will feature watercolour, oil,pen and ink drawings, mosaic, pottery, and sculpture. At present, they are working on a body of work to exhibit during Kilkenny Arts Festival this summer.
For Further information contact: Colette T:056 8833623
Foras na Gaeilge Grants Foras na Gaeilge is currently providing match-funding toassist small businesses in producing bilingual (Irish/English)language materials on a once-off basis to a maximum of€1,000.The scheme also extends to production and displayof signage to a maximum of €2,000. Grant aid is based on50% funding.
Check out www.forasnagaeilge.ie for further details.
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
Opportunities9
Now inviting applications for the CCoI 3rd Level Awards 2007The scheme is designed to encourage and support our most talented third level students in progressing towards a professional career in the industry. There are two awards, each worth €2,500. One is for final-year honours degree undergraduates*, the other for final-year postgraduates.
The awards must be used to develop a student’s craft based practice (e.g. further study/training, travel-based research). All craft disciplines are eligible (visit www.ccoi.ie for full list) and applicants must be registered as associate members of CCoI.
One student per discipline per college may apply, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. Only those currently studying in Ireland are eligible to apply.
Applicants must be nominated by a craft tutor. Application forms are available from the CCoI offices and must be returned to CCoI, Castle Yard, Kilkenny, by 5pm on Friday 8th June 2007. All nominees will be interviewed on 28/29th June 2007.
For further information contact: Sharon Rollston, Education Programme Manager T: +353 (0)56 7761804, E: [email protected] or go to www.ccoi.ie
* or final-year undergraduates from accredited design and production courses recognised by CCoI as the highest available qualification in Ireland in a specific craft discipline.
Interested in Selling into Department Stores or Garden Centres?Under the Strategic Plan 2007 - 2009, the Crafts Council of Ireland is developing a wide range ofnew projects aimed at increasing the amount and variety of craft available to consumers.
Developing partnerships, promotions and initiatives with a range of retailers and galleries is central to this. So, if you have a product range that is not currently available through DepartmentStores or Garden Centres and:
• your products are suited to these retailers’ key consumers • you are committed to wholesaling• you can meet the margins required by retailers • you have the capacity and systems in place to meet orders and deliver product on time• you are prepared to take part in project that will require co-investment
attendance at workshops and potentially new product development
please send expressions of interest to [email protected] by Friday 25th May 2007
A support and development programme will be provided to candidates selected for inclusion in these projects.Further information will be published on the web site in the coming weeks and in the next issue of Stopress.
New Postgraduate CoursesFor further details go to ads on page 16
New Outlets for Craft?Increasing Craft Profile in the Regions
Information Seminars
May 29th (Dublin),May 31st (Co. Cork) and June 5th (Co. Galway)
As part of activity under the new Strategic Plan 2007 - 2009 the Crafts Councilof Ireland are developing an initiative to facilitate and encourage the developmentof Regional Craft Outlets in areas where craft is under-represented in the existing retail environment.
In the coming weeks CCoI will be undertaking a call out for submissions fromparties interested in developing a regional craft outlet. An intense support programme is available to successful candidates to realise the launch of aRegional Craft Outlet. In particular, consortium applications will be encouraged(craft clusters and networks working in partnership with local developmentagencies, Local Authorities or other key partners).
For further information contact Nicola Doran at 056 7796153 Watch Stopress and www.ccoi.ie for further information in the coming weeks
‘Side by Side’Are you interested in showing your works side by side with Renoir, Picasso and Yeats?
Submission Deadline 15th June 2007
The Hunt Museum in Limerick exhibits one of Ireland's greatest
private collections of art and antiquities, dating from the Neolithic
to the 20th Century.
For the past two years, the Crafts Council of Ireland’s Collectors
Events have been held in the Hunt Museum’s temporary exhibition
space. We are now moving the work into the Museum’s main
exhibition cases.Why not show your work in the same case as an
object made in 2000BC, or hang out near a Picasso?
If you would like to be considered for this exhibition please send
an expression of interest outlining why you wish to exhibit in Side
by Side at the Hunt Museum.You can, at this point, suggest which
works you would like to be side by side with.Your submission
should include images or sketches of the work you propose and at
least 4 images of past work.
Send to: Side by Side, National Craft Gallery, Castle
Yard, Kilkenny
If you wish to visit the Museum for research purposes please
bring a copy of Stopress with you to gain free admission for
one person.You may view objects in the Collection at
www.huntmuseum.com
Bursary 2007to come...brandingfrom Caroline...
CCoI Bursary 07A high profile award of up to €20,000 which may be given as a singlebursary to an individual, or divided between two or three awardees.
Closing date: 31st August 2007
For further information and applications forms go to www.ccoi.ie or contact Hilary Morley T: 091 528524 E: [email protected]
Opportunities 10
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
From Design to Production to the Shop Floor Enterprise Ireland is very pleased to announce that Bernard White will present a workshop
titled “From Design to Production to the Shop Floor”. Bernard White has had many years
working in the Fashion sector and has gained significant experience and expertise as owner and
managing director of Henry White Ltd one of Ireland’s most successful fashion brands.
In this workshop, aimed at new Irish Fashion and Cothing Designers, Bernard will be discussing
issues ranging from design, finance, marketing and sales, production, production planning, distribution
and after-sales service. The content focuses on delivering a more efficient product and service to
your customers with a view to developing sales, profits and a successful design brand.
As part of the presentation it is required that you bring with you sample size and quality control
specs to discuss with Bernard who will be available on a one-to-one basis after the workshop to
discuss any areas you may wish to explore further.
On Wednesday 30 May 2007 from 10.00am - 12.00pm at Enterprise Ireland,Merrion Hall, Strand Road, Sandymount, Dublin 4
Master Gem Stonecutter and Goldsmith in KilkennyOn Friday 13th July, Bernd Munsteiner the German Master Gem Stonecutter and Goldsmith will be in Kilkenny with the Jewellery Designand Goldsmithing Course.
At 2.30pm he will be giving a PowerPoint presentation for the trainees. It will last about 1 hour.The venue is Butler House, Patrick Street, Kilkenny (to be confirmed).
You can see samples of Bernd’s work on these sites http://www.munsteiner-cut.de/english.htmlhttp://www.khulsey.com/jewelry/atelier_munsteiner.html
If you would like to attend contact: Amanda Walsh E: [email protected] T: 056 77 61804
Research MissionsFinancial assistance towards visiting shows
If you want to research an event/show in 2007and want to
avail of assistance with costs, apply now
Closing date: 30th April 2007
For further information and applications forms go to: www.ccoi.ie or contact Helen Loughran T: 048 30833605 E: [email protected]
Get inspired, read the reviews on www.ccoi.ieAlso visit the Resource area of the CCoI website for listings
of design Museums/Craft Fairs & Exhibitions in Europe.
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
Opportunities 12
CCoI OPPORTUNITY DIARY DATES BY/ON/CURRENTLY/TBC*
3rd Level Awards by 8th June 2007
Portfolio 07 by 28th August 2007
Bursary by 31st August 2007
Research Missions by 30th November 2007
50% Scheme by 30th November 2007
ENTERPRISE IRELAND DATES
Jewellery Design and Market Trend Forecast 20th June 2007
Knitwear Trend Forecast Autumn/Winter ‘08 11th July 2007
Womenswear Trend Forecast Autumn/Winter 08/09 25th July & 11th September 2007
Dates for your Diary *Please note: The July/August issue of Stopress will be
published on 16th July 2007. Please forward all submissions
by 15th June 2007.
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
Opportunities13
NATIONAL CRAFT GALLERY (NCG) EXHIBITIONS 2007Programme 2007 out now, contact [email protected] or log onto www.ccoi.ie
NCG, Castle Yard, Kilkenny
Wild Geese: The Irish in America on 31st March - 10th June
Avantcraft on 21st April - 20th May
Seomra on 16th June - 29th July
INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR DATES 2007
Pulse London 3rd - 5th June 2007
Home & Gift Harrogate 15th - 18th July 2007
Maison et Objet 7th - 11th September 2007
Premiere Vision 18th - 21st September 2007
Top Drawer 9th - 11th September 2007
Origin The London Craft Fair at Somerset House (formerly Chelsea Craft Fair)
2nd - 7th October & 9th - 14th October 2007 www.craftsonline.org.uk
SOFA Chicago 2nd - 4th November 2007
100% Design 20th - 23rd September 2007 www.100percentdesign.co.uk
IJL www.jewellerylondon.com 2nd - 5th September 2007
SHOWS IN IRELAND
Interior Design Show '+ Art 2007' 17th - 20th May 2007
Futura Fair 29th - 31st July 2007
Fáilte 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 [email protected]
Kevin O’Dwyer, Curator Nancy Moore Bess Sydney Lynch
Paula Stokes John Boyd Smith Mike Brolly
Sean O’Meallie Andy O’Shea
Wild Geese: The Irish in America
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
Exhibitions & Events - NCG19
Continued from page 20
Avantcraft is a unique collaboration of skill, expertise and creativity. Mastercraftspeople and pioneering designers work side by side to develop new andinnovative products. The results are unveiled in this stunning exhibition in theNational Craft Gallery.
This exciting initiative by the Crafts Council of Ireland involves artists fromIreland, Portugal, France and Spain. Creative horizons are pushed to the limit bymarrying the skills and vision of the designers and makers. But the real winnersare the consumers. Sleek, modern and fresh, this collection of hand-made itemsis inspired by the Atlantic and its seductive beauty and force.
The Irish element of Avantcraft was directed by internationally renowned designer Pat McCarthy. His creative partnerships included Jerpoint Glass withTriple Dee, Noel Whelan Furniture with Lorraine Brennan and McKernanScarves with Lucy Erridge.
Avantcraft began in 2005. Last year saw the new Irish products unveiled to critical acclaim in Habitat’s flagship store in Dublin. And now, two years hardwork finally comes to fruition in the National Craft Gallery in Kilkenny. Avantcraftthe Exhibition will also travel to Portugal, France and Spain.
Avantcraft is an initiative funded by the EU and the Crafts Council of Ireland. It is supported by the
European Programme INTERREG IIIB under the Atlantic Area Partnership.
Stylish, modern and beautifully crafted - visit the perfect room this summer
at the National Craft Gallery. The flagship space for contemporary craft
showcases Irish and innovative work for the interior.
Interested in creating a beautiful space in your home? Want to bring a room to life? ThenSeomra is not to be missed. This unique exhibition features one-of-a-kind contemporary furniture and decorative objects, created by some of Ireland’s top craftspeople.
Seomra just recently returned from a showing in Paris, after wowing both critics and audiences in the world’s most stylish city.These ambassadors of Irish design were invited tobring their work to the gallery at SEMA, owned by the French society for the promotion ofcontemporary craft.The Crafts Council of Ireland is delighted to bring this exhibition home.
Visitors to the gallery have a treat in store: Groundbreaking bespoke furniture by JosephWalsh and Sasha Sykes; Michael Ray and Karl Harron’s stunning pieces in glass and delicatelybeautiful ceramics by Sara Flynn and Peter Scroope.All of this work demonstrates perfectlythe desirability of contemporary Irish craft.
This exhibition is supported by the National Craft Gallery, the Crafts Council of Ireland’sflagship exhibition space. Based in Kilkenny, its year-round exhibitions programme provides aninspirational outlet where craftspeople can develop new and innovative designs.
Continued from page 20
Quilt Art 20 celebrates the 20th anniversary of a remarkable artistic collective.Thequilt has long struggled to be accepted as an art form.Thanks to the extraordinaryskills of these artists, it is now at the forefront of contemporary textile art.
Through integrity of expression and quality craftsmanship, Quilt Art has succeeded inextending the boundaries of this age-old medium.This touring exhibition celebratesthe distinctive approach of each individual.
Visitors to the gallery are invited to explore the mix of abstract and thoughtprovoking ideas, realised with an ever-changing variety of surface techniques.
Many of these artists trained in other fields, and each one approaches the tactile andsatisfying process of sewing, layering and joining fabric in their own individual way.Thefinal pieces evolve from observation and inspiration in the world around us, or expresspersonal or social issues.
Quilt Art 20 consists of 22 members from America and Europe, including Ireland. Aswell as prominent quilt artists exhibiting nationally and internationally, many membersare well-known lecturers and teachers.
Quilt Art 20 runs from 9th June to 15th July 2007 at NCG. This exhibition then travels to France, Japan, Canada and Germany.
Avantcraft
SEOMRANational Craft Gallery
16th June - 29th July 2007
Quilt Art 20
The National Craft Gallery was the centre of a massive
party recently when the Wild Gleese flocked over from
the United States for one of the most exciting openings
of the year.
Most of the artists exhibiting in Wild Geese:The Irish in America made
the journey for the opening, bringing family and friends with them. On
the night of Thursday, 29th March, everyone gathered in the gallery to
meet Crafts Council of Ireland staff, Board Members and indeed each
other. Some of the artists were already on familiar terms but for other
it was a chance to meet other leading American craftspeople for the
very first time.
Friday and Saturday saw the artists taking part in a hugely successful
seminar ‘Making It In The USA’. Held in Kilkenny Castle, the seminar
lasted two days and included a series of very entertaining 'in conversation'
sessions with Dr Frances Ruane.
Friday night was the official opening of the exhibition and hundreds
turned up to see first-hand stunning examples of contemporary glass,
ceramics, jewellery, woodturning, textiles and metal art.
This opening came just a couple of weeks after another international
exhibition opened its doors in the National Craft Gallery. Tradition
Transformed: Contemporary Korean Ceramics features uniquely
elegant and original sculptural works from Korea. The exhibition was
formally opened by Korean Ambassador Kwon, John Rak, who was
accompanied by his wife Nam,Yeon Hee.
Wild Geese: The Irish in America
Joes
phW
alsh
Crafts Council of Ireland Newsletter
Upcoming Exhibitions - NCG 20
A fantastic fusion of craft and design. Leading European designers and craftspeople join forceswith groundbreaking results.
QUILT ART 20National Craft Gallery
9th June - 15th July 2007
Introducing some of the best examples of internationalcontemporary Quilt Art. This wonderful exhibition celebrates a unique artform, combining colour, textureand stitch.
Continued on page 19 Continued on page 19
AVANTCRAFTNational Craft Gallery
21st April - 20th May
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For further information on the National Craft Gallery: T: 056 7761804 E: [email protected] W: www.ccoi.ie
The National Craft Gallery 2007 opening times are: January - March: Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm (Closed Sunday)
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 anynotice or advertisement and accept no responsibility for the accuracy of any information contained in a notice or advertisement.Advertisements in Stopress do not indicate endorsementby CCoI. It is the responsibility of the reader to check that goods and services are describedfully and accurately.
CCoI expressly excludes liability for direct or indirect consequential loss or damage which mayarise 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 thirdparty contributors to Stopress.
All copyright, database rights, trade mark design rights and any other intellectual property rightswhatsoever in Stopress are, owned by and the property of CCoI.
Crafts Council of Ireland, Castle Yard, Kilkenny t: 353 56 7761804 f: 353 56 7763754e: [email protected] www.ccoi.ie
FOR NATIONAL CRAFT GALLERY NEWS TURN TO PAGE 19
The Copy date for July/August 2007Stopress is 15th June. Publication date is 16th July 2007
Advertising in Stopress is free and is welcomed.Submissions for ar ticles fromcraftspeople and those interested in craftare also always welcome - please contact:
Communications Dept.Crafts Council of Ireland t. 056 7761804 e:[email protected]
While every care has been taken in thecompilation of this Stopress, the publishercannot take responsibility for errorsor omissions.
