Textile artist Síofra Holyland from Galway. Photos: Darragh Kane

Craft Cork celebrates ten years

A decade of Corkonian creativity will be celebrated this week as Cork Craft Month enters its tenth year.

Embracing the unique and intricate history of Cork and the immense pool of talent it holds, Cork Craft Month boasts 31 days straight of workshops, demos, open studios, craft trails and much more.

The celebration kicks off tomorrow, Friday, with the launch of the ‘Present Past’ exhibition in Fota House. The exhibition is curated by Róisín Foley and showcases works from a selection of Cork Craft & Design artists and makers.

Special guest at the event will be writer and consultant Frances McDonald, who will officially launch both the exhibition and Cork Craft Month itself.

Guests at the ‘Present Past’ opening night will be given a sneak peek into what to expect from the month-long celebration, while getting an exclusive first look at the exhibition.

Also under the spotlight for the month of August will be the ‘We Are Cork’ exhibition, which takes place in the Atrium at Cork’s City Hall.

Cork Craft & Design’s headquarters at St Patrick’s Woollen Mills in Douglas will also play a significant role during the event, serving as both a retail space where visitors can purchase works from their favourite makers, as well as a further exhibition space that acts as a platform for the many members of the collective.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Maeve Murphy, Operations Manager of Cork Craft Month, revealed why this year is an extra special one for all involved.

She said: “Marking our tenth anniversary this year is by no means a low-key moment for everyone who has had a role in the success and continuation of Cork Craft Month and of course, Cork Craft & Design. We’re celebrating a decade of appreciation for the artists and makers that pour their heart and soul into their craft.”

She added: “I’d encourage anyone with an interest in art and craft, and anyone looking for a really fun and unique way to spend a summer’s day, to check out the brochure, pop along to the events and play a valuable part in helping us maintain this wonderful event for another ten years!”

The complete Cork Craft Month 2019 brochure is available to view online at corkcraftanddesign.com.