Alanna’s work is commended
ALANNA Plekkenpol from Bray has been Highly Commended in the gift category at Showcase – Ireland’s International Creative Expo, for her decorative tiles.
The expo took place at the RDS, with awards presented by Karen Hennessy, Chief Executive of the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland. The annual show has established itself as a must-see trade event, attracting buyers from Ireland and more than 20 other countries, including UK, USA, Mainland Europe and the Far East, all keen to see the latest designs from Ireland’s top brands and craft producers.
Alanna creates art on tiles. Every design features playful details, in which traditional Dutch Delft Blue patterns contrast with modern elements using a combination of digital illustration and collage. All of her products are designed and hand-finished in Ireland.
Designers, manufacturers and craftspeople unveiled their new season collections across fashion, jewellery, home and giftware during the four-day event.
A particular emphasis was placed on new products to market, providing retailers with opportunities to discover and stock up on the latest design-led products, many of which were unique to the show.
Karen Hennessy, Chief Executive of the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland, said: ‘Since this annual trade show was founded 42 years ago, the continued growth and development of Showcase indicates that there is a strong desire from buyers both in Ireland and internationally to discover and access high-quality Irish designed and crafted products. Our annual Showcase awards programme not only shines a light on the excellent craftsmanship, design and presentation of the makers’ work but also highlights the importance of encouraging new product development, allowing buyers to see the very latest innovations from Irish designers and craftspeople at the fair. With such a wide range of exceptional Irish products to choose from, it is always a tough task for our selectors to pick winners and I would like to congratulate all this year’s award recipients, runners-up and those who were highly commended.’