The Crafts Council of Ireland (CCoI) is the national design and economic development organisation for the crafts industry in Ireland, which has an estimated output of €498m. CCoI is responsible for fostering the growth and commercial strength of the crafts industry in Ireland, communicating its unique identity and stimulating quality design, innovation and competitiveness. Based in Kilkenny, the Crafts Council of Ireland has over 60 member organisations and over 2,000 registered craft enterprises. Its activities are funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation via Enterprise Ireland.
The Crafts Council of Ireland (CCoI) recognise the critical role that education plays in the future growth of craft and in the preservation of our cultural heritage. CCoI has a number of education initiatives at primary, second and third level aimed at developing an awareness of craft and creativity and promoting careers in the craft industry. Information on different careers in craft is available as well as details on national and international awards and bursaries available to those studying a craft discipline. Head of Market Development at the Crafts Council of Ireland Brian McGee revealed that 5,770 jobs would be sustained in the craft sector if every household spent just €10 on Irish crafts.
Full details on all supports available can be found on the CCoI web site at www.ccoi.ie
Woodturner
Glenn Lucas "Getting a significant order for my work at my first trade fair in 1997 was really rewarding and they still order from me every year!"
Potter
Ray Power "each year we spend a few weeks working on new colours, new firing processes, to suit the marketplace"
Textile Design/Handweaver
Liz Christy "I was really chuffed when I met an unknown lady wearing [one of my scarfs] in Shop Street in Galway as I studied and honed my craft there"
Art Studio Manager
Jamie McCarthy-Fisher "Its a very wonderful thing to know that [our art works] are hanging on walls all around the world"
