Carlow-based craft network FORM is opening its membership and looking to expand within County Carlow. The craft network, entitled FORM, was launched in May 2014. The network currently consists of 11 established design makers, who create high quality home ware, gifts and wearable pieces. All of the group, which is made up of jewellery makers, furniture makers, textile artists and designers, wood turners and ceramicists, live and work in Co Carlow and have come together to promote their work and raise the awareness of their individual craft enterprises.

Funded by the Local Enterprise Office Carlow as part of the business supports of Carlow County Council, the expansion of this group comes at a time of renewed interest, both in Ireland and internationally, in art, design and crafts. The members of the group are keen to emphasise their individual craft roots. In creating handcrafted high quality objects, FORM also reflects contemporary craft’s engagement with new technology and the breaking down of the boundaries that have traditionally existed between art, design and craft.

Speaking about the expansion of the network, Kieran Comerford, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office said “Craft and design is very important to County Carlow. Form is made up of 11 established designer makers from all around the county. It has been very successful since its launch in 2014 and will continue to be successful in the future. The network is seeking more members to further this success and develop the network of talented design makers.”

An introductory event will be held at Seven Oaks Hotel, Athy Road Carlow on Wednesday 4^th November 2015 at 6.30pm which will provide hopeful applicants with more knowledge on the network and further details on how to apply.

A selection of work by members of the group was displayed at the Kilkenny Arts Festival 2015 and various other events are planned throughout the year. The works include jewellery, in precious metal and polymer clay, naturally dyed and printed wearable pieces, felt pieces, patchwork table pieces, children’s clothing, furniture, ceramics and wood turned vessels. FORM undertakes a series of promotional activities over the course of each year. If you wish to become a member of the network, complete the application form and return by email to jmulcahy@carlowcoco.ie by 4^th December 2015. For further information, please contact John Mulcahy on 059-9129783.