The RDS has announced the prize-winners of the 2012 RDS National Crafts Competition. Maintaining an overall prize fund of €28,000, the competition saw a significant increase in entrants this year, revealing the continued surge in interest in craft and design. Together with the winners of the 20 categories and the special prizes sponsored by Irish Crafts Guilds and Associations, the prize-winning and highly commended works will be on show in the RDS Concert Hall today (Friday ), from 10am to 5pm, offering the opportunity for the public to see the exhibition free of charge.
From the west, the RDS awarded Pawel Guba, from Castlebar with first prize in the Iron/Metalwork Category for his work entitled ‘Jewellery Box’. A previous RDS award winner, Pawel’s work displays an individual style, a high level of craftsmanship, and an understanding of a broad range of processes, techniques, and materials. The marriage of all of the above resulted in a unique sculptural piece.
This year the winner of first prize in the Musical Instruments Category was John Butler from Achill Island, with his set of beautifully crafted uilleann pipes. John has combined form and function through wood, metal, and leather, to create a functional musical instrument which sounds as good as it looks.
The RDS National Crafts Competition has become one of the highlights of the Irish Crafts industry calendar. It allows both professional and amateur craft designers to compete for prestigious awards by an independently adjudicated judging panel.
