Get crafty in County Antrim

Basket weaving, textile arts and jewellery making are just some of the fun experiences that people can enjoy during this year’s Craft Month and Tourism Northern Ireland is encouraging everyone to try out some of the wide range of activities that are available all over Northern Ireland.
Craft.Craft.
Craft.

Craft Month is now in its ninth year and is an annual celebration of contemporary craft in Northern Ireland, delivered by a partnership of craft-related organisations.

The celebration will see over 130 innovative events including exhibitions, workshops, talks and much more take place all over Northern Ireland.

Tourism Northern Ireland’s Destination PR Officer Pauline Gormley explains why everyone should unleash their creativity and try out some of the events in their area. She said: “Craft Month is a fantastic way to try out something new with friends or family and to really discover your inner creative side. There will be lots of opportunities to chat with some of Northern Ireland’s most talented crafters and artisans as well as enjoy fun exhibitions, workshops, talks and seminars.

“Why not learn to make something new like a beautiful piece of jewellery or pottery and treat a loved one to something handmade or enjoy a fun day out with loved ones at an interesting exhibition. During Craft Month there are lots of opportunities to create fun memories enjoying a new experience. You could even turn your day out into a short break and book an overnight stay at a local hotel or B&B,” added Pauline.

Tourism NI has highlighted some of the exhibitions occurring throughout Northern Ireland during Craft Month.

Co. Antrim

Textile Art Exhibition, Exhibition Port na Gree House, Ballycastle, August 4 – August 31.

Textile artist Eibhlin McCarry makes contemporary works in batik, hand embroidery, machine stitch, mixed media and felt, both landscape and abstract, including large works.

Basket Weaving by the Sea, Magherabouy House Hotel, Portrush, August 3 – August 4.

To learn a new skill go along to this basket weaving class where under the guidance of tutor Louise McLean of Atlantic Craft NI over a two day event, you will learn and develop various techniques to produce artisan baskets.

Throwing Porcelain, Flowerfields Arts Centre, Portwtewart, August 4 – August 7.

This four day event will see participants make their own pots using porcelain clay on a wheel under the watch of talented potter Adam Frew. This is the perfect opportunity to make something for a loved one or friend.

Co. Londonderry

Forming Words, Roe Valley Arts & Cultural Centre, Limavady, June 12 – August 22.

This touring exhibition from Flow Gallery in London, showcases the work of nineteen leading international artists exploring how text can inspire form and structure.