New craft network launched in Carlow
A new craft network, called FORM, was launched this week (14/05/2014) at a reception at VISUAL, Centre for Contemporary Art, Carlow. The network consists of 12 established designer 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 in County Carlow as part of the business supports of Carlow County Council, the formation of this group comes at a time of renewed interest, both in Ireland and internationally, in making and the handmade and the members of the group are keen to emphasis their individual craft roots. But, in creating handcrafted high quality objects, FORM also reflects contemporary craft’s engagement with new technology and ideas and the breaking down of the boundaries that have traditionally existed between art, design and craft.
Speakers at the launch included Karen Hennessy, CEO of the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland, Ariane Tobin, the Chairperson of FORM and Kieran Comerford, Head of Local Enterprise Office Carlow. A selection of work by members of the group was displayed at the launch and this included 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 plan to undertake a series of promotional activities over the coming year beginning with an opening exhibition during the Borris House Festival of Writing & Ideas (June 14th & 15th).
For further information on FORM contact Frances McDonald
E: francesmmcdonald@gmail.com T: 087 2420136
