Celebrate Craft Month

Head north for a celebration of cool crafts…

The current issue of Image Interiors & Living is an homage to Irish craft, so naturally we’re very excited about what’s happening north of the border this month. Hosted by Craft NI, August Craft Month is Northern Ireland’s annual celebration of the design-led contemporary craft sector. The full month of craft love delivers a comprehensive programme of exhibitions, workshops, festivals, events and talks all over the province, and includes activities for a huge range of ages, levels and interests.

Starting with the kids, this hopping event takes place tomorrow, Thursday August 7, so you’ll have to be quick. The Jumping Clay workshops encourage children to be creative while getting their hands dirty making their favourite cartoon characters or animals in 3D. This event, suitable for five- to 12-year-olds, will take place at the Market Place Theatre and Art Centre, Armagh, and booking is essential (call the box office on +44 28 3752 1821).

Next of our picks is Costumes, Props, Armour, Weapons and More at Space CRAFT, Belfast, featuring the work of the artists, designers and makers who work behind the scenes to create incredible costumes and props for the screen industry. Their talent has contributed to Northern Ireland’s reputation as a world-class location for film and TV production. Admission is free, no booking required.

For a weekend with all the elements of the month entwined, why not visit the beautiful estate of Castle Ward on the shores of Strangford Lough for CRAFT FEST 2014 from August 15-17? Now in its 11th year, the festival hosts a variety of exhibitions, workshops and demonstrations, and gives you the opportunity to meet a range of artists-in-residence and buy craft.

Finally, avid upcyclers shouldn’t miss renowned US craft designer Boris Bally‘s three-week-long REclaim/REpurpose residency in Derry, which runs until the end of the month.

Next, check out our pick of the coolest craft blogs from all corners of the web.

@Image_Interiors