Anyone interested in enhancing their arts and crafts skills will be delighted to hear that a special programme of craft workshops will begin next month in Derry’s historic Craft Village.
Derry City and Strabane District Council, in partnership with The Honourable The Irish Society, has joined with Number 19 Craft & Design to offer a diverse range of workshops as part of August Craft Month, under the collective theme of Hearts of Craft.
The programme is part of a number of ongoing initiatives celebrating the city’s rich culture and heritage offering.
Participants will have the chance to try their hand at pendant painting, wool crocheting, leather working, textiles and metal working under the expert guidance of some of the very best local makers and designers.
Looking ahead to the programme, Edward Montgomery from The Honourable The Irish Society, said: “I am delighted for the Irish Society to partner with Council once again to promote local arts and crafts, and what better location than the Craft Village which is a vibrant hub of talent and creativity all year round.
“Programmes such as this provide an opportunity to showcase the beautiful walled city, celebrating its unique culture and heritage and the thriving craft community we are so lucky to have.”
Tourism Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Margaret Edwards, said: “August Craft Month shines a light on some of the fantastic makers who are keeping these creative skills alive and providing a wide array of bespoke products reflecting our unique craft heritage for visitors to the City to enjoy.
“This is a great opportunity to learn from the professionals and perhaps discover a new talent.”
Among the professional makers sharing their expertise is Edel McBride, who is renowned for her stunning range of stylish Irish knitwear.
“Forging connections and community through making and craft have a long history in the city,” Edel explained.
“Appreciation for local made hand crafts is enjoying a golden moment. The ‘Hearts of Craft’ weekly craft classes, hosted by Number 19 Craft and Design, during August are a great opportunity to meet the makers and participate, maybe it will be the beginning of a new creative journey.
“When someone is making something and engrossed in the process, it is automatic to want to watch and question what is happening.
“Then conversation opens up between the maker and the viewer and a connection is made, stories often exchanged. Maybe the viewer has ‘a -go’ at the activity too.
“The craft classes hosted by Number 19 Craft and Design will take place during ‘August Craft Month’, and will demonstrate five very different making activities by five talented professional makers.”
To find out more about the classes go to: https://craftni.org/august-craft-month/?search_loc=derry-city&dates=&event_type=
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