The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Choose a bespoke, original and personalised gift this Christmas…
WE all want to give that special gift at Christmas; the kind that will leave a lasting impression long into the new year and beyond. The ‘Original Kerry’ gift shop in Upper Street, Dingle is a place where creativity and skill combine to produce wonderful bespoke gifts.
Ionad Ceardaíochta is a hub for artisan craft makers from all over Kerry whose wares are given the kind of public forum they deserve. The shop stocks items from over 30 individual craft makers from the Kerry Craft Makers Trail. Showcasing the best of crafts, the shop brings a broad range of gifts that you won’t find in the high-street shopping arenas.
Weaving, cosmetics, wood turning, jewellery, copper work and textile art is but a sample of the range available. Each item is a physical expression of a personal philosophy for the maker, and you can rest assured when choosing a gift that it is a creation that is personal.
“While it’s always important to support local, what we stock is also different and you won’t find them in every shop. Our store is also located in an old building and this adds to the creative atmosphere of the products we sell. It’s a shop that really benefits each person’s work,” said Aileen Ní Shé.
The Dingle Peninsula is a natural and culturally creative setting. This is also evident in many of the gifts on sale. It’s not too difficult to understand why inspiration from the terrain, history and mythology of the Dingle Peninsula has been a motivating factor for centuries of craft makers. But while the past serves as an inspiration for many of the instore products, they equally have a contemporary vibe.
“The gifts are more personal. In our 2018 brochure there is a picture of each craft maker which I think personalises the gifts even more. The shop is as much an information point for customers as it is a sales area. Customers can even contact the people directly involved in making their choice of gift. The whole collaboration between the craft makers and customers makes for a more unique and interactive experience,” said Aileen.
Be sure to call to the store and pick up a special gift this Christmas. Ceoireann an t-ionad ceardaíochta fáilte roimh gachéinne.