A month-long celebration of local craft makers across Ireland is well underway and this August Craft Month a host of exciting events are taking place in Galway.
Celebrating the vibrant local craft scene, people will have the chance to experience exhibitions and workshops across a variety of crafts right on their doorstep as well as supporting local makers by buying products and learning more about their work.
Local makers such as Jaqui Ryan, Heather Finn and Lásadóirí na Coiribe will be involved in the celebrations and events this year.
The programme provides unmissable opportunities to experience, participate in, support, buy and learn about the local stand-out craft sector and, with over 400 events on offer across the island, provides the perfect excuse to hit the road for a craft inspired adventure or staycation.
Here are a few of the exciting events taking place locally this month:
Lace Exhibition ‘Ó ghlúin go glúin’
Location: Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Lombard St
Date: Saturday, August 12 to Sunday, August 20, Monday – Saturday 10am to 4pm and Sunday 12pm to 4pm.
Price: Free
This exhibition will display the unique pieces created and hand stitched by Lásadóirí na Coiribe. Some of the precious heirlooms on display will include christening, Holy Communion and wedding veils.
The theme, ‘from one generation to the next’ treasures those pieces that are passed down through families that will bring our rich heritage to life for future generations.
These experiences and practices add to the cultural wealth of our nation and conservation of our craft of lacemaking into the future.
Open Studio at Kinvara Pottery
Location: Killeenaran, Kilcolgan, Galway
Date: Saturday, August 12 11am to 4pm.
Price: Free
This meet the maker opportunity provides people with the opportunity to visit a working pottery studio and explore the place.
Visit ceramicist Jaqui Ryan in her courtyard studio and have a go at making a textured tile.
Unique, handmade ceramics on display and for sale in the tiny ‘Loovre’ gallery space onsite.
Oranmore Castle Heritage Market
Location: Oranmore Castle, Castle Road, Oranmore
Date: Saturday, August 19 11am to 4pm
Price: Free
As part of national heritage week, Oranmore Castle is holding a heritage market to celebrate our ‘living heritage’.
Expect a selection of contemporary and traditional crafts, locally made and home-grown produce including delicious cakes and treats.
There are also plans in place to run workshops for children to engage with nature.
Led by Design and Crafts Council Ireland, in partnership with Craft NI and Cork Craft Design, this month-long celebration, now in its second year, celebrates the vibrant local craft scene and gives people the chance to immerse themselves in the wonderful visual and hands on experience of craft.
For more information, and to see the list of events taking place across the island visit www.augustcraftmonth.org
