Kerry craftspeople to show their wares in Dublin

SEVERAL Kerry craft businesses who are part of the Original Kerry Brand are due to take part in Showcase Ireland’s Creative Expo, at the RDS in Dublin next week.

This is the 36th year of the show and 350 of the country’s leading designers, manufacturers and craftspeople will exhibit under one roof from January 22 to 25.

A range of craft businesses will attend from Kerry this year with support from the County Enterprise Board and Original Kerry — all intending to make their mark on the Show.

Bluebell Eco Candles from Headford will exhibit a wide range of Handmade Natural Soy Candles with pure essential oils. They will also announce the release of their new soy massage candles at the Show.

Goose Island Workshop from Castlegregory will exhibit Windsor stools and chairs made from Kerry grown timber and sustainable hardwoods. It will be their first appearance at Showcase and they aim to expand further into the high end market they serve currently in Ireland and overseas.

Jeweller and goldsmith Seán Sugrue who has a new studio on Denny Street Tralee will be exhibiting pieces made from both textured and smooth metals using different colours with various cut gemstones.

Pat Lawless from Ballyferriter is the most westerly furniture maker in Europe and he will bring a range of one-off natural wood pieces including tables, stools and cabinets.

The show will also attended by Kerry Woollen Mills, Kerry Crafted Glass, the Mucros brand from Killarney and Killarney Crystal.

“In Kerry we have some of the best producers in the country. I am confident that buyers will be impressed when they see the quality of the product available from Original Kerry. However the sector is suffering in the recession and Kerry producers need to broaden their customer base if they are to survive. Showcase provides that opportunity,” said stated Victor Sheahan, Assistant CEO at Kerry County Enterprise Board.

Original Kerry has organised a mini-bus to Showcase Ireland departing Tralee on Monday January 23 and offering a one day return trip for any craft professional who is interested in participating.

The cost of a ticket for the bus is €50 and places can booked by calling Deirdre Johnston, Co-ordinator Original Kerry on 086 8524222 The group will also meet members of the Celtic Buyers Association who import Irish goods into the North American Irish gift shop market.