Putting Louth on the Irish craft map
SOME of Louth’s top craft makers are set to exhibit their wares at Showcase Ireland 2019 which takes in the RDS, Dublin opening this Sunday, January 20 for three days.
Showcase is the most important trade show on the Irish calendar with over 450 exhibitors in one location, attracting buyers from throughout Ireland as well as Europe, the United States, and Japan.
Last year’s event was a huge success, with generated sales and orders amounting to €23.9 million so it’s not surprising that exhibiting at Showcase is a major boost for craft makers looking to expand their markets at home or overseas.
Three local makers are getting ready to showing their products at the Balcony at Showcase 2019 thanks to the support of the Local Enterprise Office. Celtic Valley Ceramics, Emma’s So Naturals and Sea Remedies will be among 90 brands seeking to impress buyers.
‘ The Irish craft industry continues to be recognised all over the world for its high standards,’ says Sarah Mallon of LEO Louth.
‘Showcase is the key trade exhibition which attracts buyers from all over, from the United States, Europe, Japan. They come because of the range and quality of work on show,’ says Sarah, who is a member of the Design Council of Ireland’s national committee.
She is delighted that LEO Louth is supporting the three enterprises which have been successful in developing their products and gaining markets across Ireland and further afield.
‘ The craft sector is a growing economy and we have new makers coming through all the time,’ she says.
‘It provides employment opportunities in rural areas and a lot of people who are employed in the craft sector are spread throughout the country, not just in towns and villages.’
Louth, she says, is recognised by the Craft Council of Ireland as one of the most active counties in the craft sector in the country.
Those engaged in the craft sector contribute to the local economy as they often source their raw materials and services from their own community.
‘ There is also a tourism element to it, as a lot of people will have an open studio and workshop which brings an added benefit to their area.’
The Millmount Craft in Drogheda, for example, is home to a number of makers, including Edmund McNulty whose work can also be seen at Showcase Ireland.
Craft shops are among the attractions for visitors to Carlingford, which has no less than four.
Carlingford Design House is run by Sarah’s husband, Garrett Mallon whose jewellery has been selected for the curated Design Island section at Showcase Ireland. Carlingford based artist Martina Scott, whose work can be found in Garrett’s shop, has also been selected for Design Island.
In addition to giving makers the opportunity to exhibit at Showcase Ireland, Louth LEO offers a range of supports and training, such as start your own business courses and grants for website design.