Crafting culture
Over 50 artists from all over Ireland will descend upon Cork this weekend for one of the country’s top craft and design showcases.
From this Friday to Sunday, the Glucksman gallery at UCC will be brimming with Irish-made designs and fabulous gifts for all budgets.
The Glucksman Craft + Design Fair 2024 will see the artists’ stunning works displayed across all three gallery floors where visitors will have the opportunity to support and purchase crafts directly from the makers.
The fair, which will feature designs in jewellery, ceramics, woodturning, textiles, illustrations, and furniture will be launched by fashion designer Don O’Neill who has created gowns for celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Oprah Winfrey.
On the evening of 8 November, Mr O’Neill will present three awards honouring achievements of three of the participating designers in the categories of best display, best newcomer, and sustainability champion.
Children’s craft workshops will be taking place on Saturday and Sunday. The one-hour long workshops are suitable for children between the age of six and ten, giving parents and guardians some free time to browse the fair or enjoy a coffee and a treat in Léa’s café. Booking for the workshops is essential and can be done at glucksman.org/craftfair.
Speaking ahead of the event, fair curator, Mathilde Corbineau, said: “There really is something for everyone in the tremendous selection of designs on display. We really appreciate the support for homegrown talent, as well as the commitment of our participants to creating sustainable as well as beautiful things that are mindful of their impact on our world.”
Glucksman Director Fiona Kearney added: “The modest admission charge of €5 supports our dedicated programmes for families experiencing homelessness, and there will also be a special raffle with lots of designer prizes, all to help us raise funds for this important outreach work, so we really appreciate Cork getting behind us, as well as the superb makers this weekend.”
Throughout the year, the Glucksman shop presents a curated offering of Irish craft and design with a strong focus on sustainability. The annual fair features some of the best of these makers.
The Glucksman Craft + Design Fair is open from 1-7pm this Friday, 10am-6pm on Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sunday. Admission is €5. For more information and workshop booking, visit glucksman.org/craftfair. The Glucksman gallery is located on the grounds of UCC near the Western Road entrance to the college.