Craft NI

Creative Peninsula Exhibition at North Down Museum
2023-08-02 10:00 - 2023-09-24 16:00 (Europe/London) | North Down Museum, Town Hall, The Castle, Bangor, BT20 4BT, United Kingdom
The Long Gallery at North Down Museum will host the Creative Peninsula Exhibition between August 2 – September 17.
Creative Peninsula is one of Northern Ireland’s premier celebrations of art and craft. This thriving annual event features workshops, demonstrations, exhibitions and much more, all taking place throughout the beautiful and picturesque Ards and North Down Borough.

This exhibition will feature unique pieces of art and craftwork specially selected for display in North Down Museum. It is a celebration of the exclusivity and quality of the artwork produced by local artists and craftspeople and a fantastic opportunity to purchase a beautiful piece of art.
A series of Creative Peninsula events including workshops and Craft in the Square will be taking place throughout the month of August.

Cameron & Breen Trunk Show
2023-07-30 13:00 - 18:00, 2023-07-29 10:00 - 17:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Come along and meet design powerhouse Martin Cameron and Laura Breen for a one-of-a-kind event – a Cameron & Breen Jewellery Trunk Show at Craft NI Gallery, Belfast! This will be a unique opportunity to meet these two talented makers in person as the Gallery will show an extended collection of their stunning works for 3 days only.
Cameron & Breen are renowned for their contemporary exploration into ancient jewellery design, having won awards from The Worshipful Company Of Goldsmiths and with noteworthy commissions under their belt such as presenting their ‘Ancient Treasure’ Brooch to Princess Anne Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in 2021.
Captivating hordes of gold jewellery found in museums influence the forms and materials in Martin and Laura’s jewellery collections. Recycled gold is cast from wax that has been carved and manipulated by hand, displaying the beautiful marks of traditional handmade design and the ancient technique of lost wax casting. Stone carvings adorned with rhythmical patterns and curious figures inspire their playful hand engraved motifs. Martin and Laura hand select emeralds, sapphires, mandarin garnets, diamonds and rock crystals to skilfully set in each individual piece.
If you have longed to try on some of their pieces after intensive social media searches, have a bespoke commission in mind such as an engagement ring, a wedding ring or anniversary gift, or are interested to remodel heirloom pieces, stop by for a chat in the Gallery’s private consultation area. Martin and Laura welcome bespoke enquiries, and their designs can be translated for you using alternative metals and your dream gemstone can be sourced to create a truly unique treasure. Martin and Laura will happily discuss using your own gold and gemstones to create a new future heirloom.
Please note the following opening hours: Friday 6 – 9pm, Saturday 10 – 5pm, Sunday 1 – 6pm.

Cameron & Breen Jewellery Trunk Show - Opening Night
2023-07-28 18:00 - 21:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Come along and meet design powerhouse Martin Cameron and Laura Breen for a one-of-a-kind event – a Cameron & Breen Jewellery Trunk Show at Craft NI Gallery, Belfast! This will be a unique opportunity to meet these two talented makers in person as the Gallery will show an extended collection of their stunning works for 3 days only.
Join us for the opening night on July 28th: the evening will start with a drinks reception at 6pm, and Martin and Laura will give a short introduction to the audience at 6:30. This will be a great opportunity to chat to them about their work and any bespoke commissions or remodelling ideas that you might have – appointments will be available over the next two days.
Cameron & Breen are renowned for their contemporary exploration into ancient jewellery design, having won awards from The Worshipful Company Of Goldsmiths and with noteworthy commissions under their belt such as presenting their ‘Ancient Treasure’ Brooch to Princess Anne Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal in 2021.
Captivating hordes of gold jewellery found in museums influence the forms and materials in Martin and Laura’s jewellery collections. Recycled gold is cast from wax that has been carved and manipulated by hand, displaying the beautiful marks of traditional handmade design and the ancient technique of lost wax casting. Stone carvings adorned with rhythmical patterns and curious figures inspire their playful hand engraved motifs. Martin and Laura hand select emeralds, sapphires, mandarin garnets, diamonds and rock crystals to skilfully set in each individual piece.
If you have longed to try on some of their pieces after intensive social media searches, have a bespoke commission in mind such as an engagement ring, a wedding ring or anniversary gift, or are interested to remodel heirloom pieces, stop by for a chat in the Gallery’s private consultation area. Martin and Laura welcome bespoke enquiries, and their designs can be translated for you using alternative metals and your dream gemstone can be sourced to create a truly unique treasure. Martin and Laura will happily discuss using your own gold and gemstones to create a new future heirloom.
Please note the following opening hours: Friday 6 – 9pm, Saturday 10 – 5pm, Sunday 1 – 6pm.

Creative Peninsula Exhibition at Ards Arts Centre
2023-07-27 10:00 - 2023-08-24 16:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
Throughout August, Ards Arts Centre will play host to the main Creative Peninsula exhibition, featuring exclusive works by the finest Artists and Makers from the Ards and North Down Borough

This exhibition will feature unique pieces of art and craftwork in a variety of mediums, specially selected for display in Ards Arts Centre and created in our Borough. This exhibition is a celebration of the exclusivity and quality of the artwork produced by local artists and makers and a fantastic opportunity to purchase a beautiful piece of art.
Artworks are for sale, and many artists accept commission work too.
Be sure to pick up a Creative Peninsula programme for more information on other events and activities taking place during the festival.

Pottery Workshop with Adam Frew
2023-07-21 10:00 - 16:00 | Adam Frew Studio, 21 Cullycapple Park, Aghadowey, BT51 4AS, United Kingdom
Join Adam Frew for this 2 day pottery course, suitable for all levels, from beginners to improvers.
The emphasis of the class will be on using the potter’s wheel to make a variety of thrown porcelain vessels. Students will be guided through the basics of throwing and also turning (finishing) pots. Adam will demonstrate his various decoration techniques and students will be encouraged to be experimental in their approach. There will be flexibility in the teaching allowing students to request specific demonstrations or help with a particular technique.
Students will each select their best pots to be fired. Finished pieces will be glaze fired in the gas kiln and ready 3-4 weeks after the course for collection, or shipping can be arranged.
Classes will be small groups of 7 students.
Payment upfront is preferred, however a 25% deposit will secure your place. A simple lunch of homemade soup and bread, as well tea and coffee are provided.

Wonderful Wool!
2023-07-07 10:00 - 2023-07-27 15:00 | Larne Museum & Arts Centre, 2 Victoria Rd, Larne, BT40 1RN, United Kingdom
‘Woonderful Wool!’ is’ an exhibition of work by members of Region 14 of the International Feltmakers Association.

The exhibition shows the versatility of this wonderful natural product when it is subjected to the process of dry or wet felting. A variety of wools have been used in the various exhibits – combined in different ways with other materials such as silk, viscose and cotton. Visitors will see 3D objects, hangings, pictures and wearable pieces such as hats, scarves and coats.

All the exhibits have been created by members of Region 14 of the International Feltmakers Association. Its members come from across the island of Ireland and include feltmakers of international renown asa well as those just starting their creative journey.

Coppersmithing Jewellery Workshop
2023-07-01 10:00 - 13:00, 2023-05-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Navan Centre & Fort, 81 Killylea Road, Armagh, BT60 4LD, United Kingdom
Draw inspiration from the Celtic jewellery and Loughnashade trumpet found at the Navan complex of sites and learn the ancient skills of coppersmithing. Participants will have the perfect opportunity to create their own personalised jewellery or gift loved ones an experience they won’t forget.
Please note: this is a half-day workshop followed by lunch, which will take place on 11th March, 6th May, 1st July & 2nd September.
All materials are supplied and no previous experience is required.

Bee Embroidery Workshop with Emma Whitehead
2023-06-24 13:30 - 16:30 | R-Space Gallery, 32 Castle Street, Lisburn, BT27 4XE, United Kingdom
Inspired by the famous painting The Laughing Cavalier housed in The Wallace Collection, Emma has designed an embroidery workshop that delves into the image’s history and iconography. After learning about the richly painted textiles in the painting, participants will embroider a beautiful bee motif on Irish linen, learning the stitches and techniques needed to create their finished piece.
All participants must be able to hand sew – beginners to embroidery are welcome. The workshop is designed to accommodate different levels of skill. Children from aged 14 are welcome, if accompanied by a parent/guardian.
All materials are provided and participants can take their work home in the hoops for £3. If you have a hoop at home, you are welcome to bring it along. (Hoop size between 6″-9″).
Emma Whitehead has been a textile artist for over 20 years. Throughout her stitching journey, she has shared her expertise with community groups and people interested in exploring the possibilities of surface embroidery. As co-director of the artist-led gallery Top Floor Art Gallery & Open Studios, she manages the TFA Studio Group; with an established reputation for excellent facilitation of traditional textile skills, the group have been engaged by organisations such as Lagan Navigation Trust, ArtsEkta and Harmony Community Trust to deliver workshop programmes and participation opportunities for the public.

Traditional Skills Festival
2023-06-24 10:00 - 2023-06-25 17:00 | Willow and Lore, 15A Craigdunloof Road, Ballymena, Newtowncrommelin, BT436RQ, United Kingdom
Come along to the Traditional Skills Festival and meet talented local crafters, makers and artists. Visitors have the option to come down for a day or stay for three days.
Over the weekend the farm will host a selection of hands on full and half day skills and crafts workshops with expert crafts people. Visitors will learn basic principles and skills, get hands on with the tools and materials and maybe even create their first crafted item.
Sunday (11am – 3pm) visitors will get the chance to watch demonstrations and learn from a number of crafters, and also to explore a heritage craft trail around the farm. General admission tickets for the Sunday demonstration day can be purchased in advance.
Visitors who wish to stay for the weekend can book to stay in Willow and Lore’s furnished bell tents or pitch up with their own camping kit.

Please note, admission ranges from £5 – £10 and workshop attendance from £45 to £90. Please read more following the organiser’s link.

Along The Loanin: Felt Workshop
2023-06-24 10:00 - 16:00 | The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh, 9 Market Street, Armagh, BT61 7BW
Join Artist Caoilfionn Murphy O’Hanlon on a guided talk through her new exhibition followed by a wet felt making workshop in response to the images and words from ‘Along the Loanin’. Participants will be producing a wool painting inspired by the exhibition and drawing on a sense of place using a blend of fibres, wools and silks. Caoilfionn will demonstrate nuno felting techniques, embroidery stitches and knot thread work for embellishing your landscape further.
All felting materials are provided but participants should bring two medium sized towels, small basin, basic sewing kit, small sketchbook, scissors and lots of imagination for this day long workshop.
Max no: 12; suitable for 16+ beginners and intermediate.

Demonstration Evening with Adam Frew
2023-06-21 19:30 - 21:00 | Adam Frew Studio, 21 Cullycapple Park, Aghadowey, BT51 4AS, United Kingdom
Come along to Adam’s pottery studio in Aghadowey for an evening of demonstrations and refreshments. Adam will be demonstrating making a teapot from start to finish as well as other items from his pottery range.
You can relax watching him make while enjoying tea or coffee and some home baked treats. There will also be the opportunity to view and purchase pots.
Booking is essential, places are limited. Tickets cost £10 to reserve a place.
The evening will start at 7.30pm and run until 9pm.

Pots for tots
2023-06-17 14:00 - 16:00 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
Younger children will getting stuck into the wonderful tactile nature of clay and experiment with shapes and forms. Slap, tap and roll a personalised pot for dad or grandad. Participants will choose their own style, perhaps with a zany tie or design to make your handmade creation really stand out.
Suitable for ages 1-4 years ( Adult to accompany child)

Silver Initial Pendant Making
2023-06-05 19:00 - 2023-06-12 21:00 | Island Arts Centre, The Island, Lisburn, BT27 4RL, United Kingdom
Initials have long been popular jewellery pieces, and there is a particularly big trend for them at the moment. participants will make their own initial pendant under the supervision of tutor Ruth Gilmour of Lure Silver.
If new to silversmithing, participants will begin with a silver nugget that they will hammer flat, polish and then stamp an initial onto, if they have experience and would like a challenge they can pierce a letter from silver sheet and then polish. All materials will be provided.
This course is suitable for complete beginners, or for those with some experience.
The small class means there will opportunity for one to one guidance and advice. Participants will be using jewellery tools, and demonstrations and health and safety procedures will be important practical aspects of this short course. Please note this course takes place on June 5th and June 12th.

Introduction to Glass Fusing with Alison Lowry
2023-06-03 11:00 - 16:00 | SchoolHouse Glass, 36 Comber Street, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, BT24 7AZ, United Kingdom
In this one day workshop participants will learn how to cut glass, about the many different types of glass and about the effects of heat on glass. In the morning they will create a range of tiles exploring some glass fusing techniques, such as inclusions, ceramic decals, powder effects. In the afternoon participants will start to work on a larger piece, which will be fired and then slumped (shaped) in the kiln to make a freestanding sculpture or bowl, this will be ready to pick up at a later date.
A great course for those who have limited time that just want to make something beautiful for their house and have fun.
Maximum 4 people per workshop.
Please contact Alison to book or for enquiries: mail@alisonlowry.co.uk

Merciful, Savage
2023-06-02 10:00 - 2023-07-01 16:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
The Georgian Gallery in Ards Arts Centre will host a joint exhibition by Karen Daye-Hutchinson and Enda Kenny starting June 2nd.

This ambitious exhibition, by Karen Daye-Hutchinson and Enda Kenny, explores the relationships between human and animal evolution, extinction and change; exploring the interaction of human beings and the natural world. Connecting with instincts and the comparisons with nature and habitat, this thought-provoking exhibition will also reveal a deeper message relating to wider life issues.
The artists collaborate with beautiful textures, hand-made papers and threads, repurposed and natural materials, as well as traditional copperplate etching, woodwork, leatherwork, bookbinding and weaving.
Reflecting on human life that is both Merciful and Savage.

'The Form is Emptiness'
2023-06-02 10:00 - 2023-07-01 16:00 | Ards Arts Centre, Town Hall, Conway Square, Newtownards, BT23 4NP, United Kingdom
The Sunburst Gallery at Ards Arts Centre will host a solo exhibition of ceramic sculpture by Fang Zhao. Her practice as a ceramicist seeks to communicate international ideals through sculpture and functional pottery. The organic form of mountain shapes, inspired by Chinese Mountain Paintings, serves as a metaphor with which to examine her personal life journey.

Fang’s work seeks to synthesise traditional and modern aesthetics in order to situate a conceptualisation of the relationship between culture and the natural world.
This exhibition will address the concept of ‘the form is emptiness’. -this could refer to a philosophy or verse, benevolent see benevolence; everyone will have their own explanation.

ForM Sculpture Exhibition
2023-06-01 10:00 - 2023-06-30 18:00 | Walled Garden Bangor Castle, Valentine Rd, Bangor, BT20 4BT
ForM Sculpture Exhibition takes place annually each June and is one of the highlights of Ards and North Down Borough Council’s annual Arts exhibition programme, giving visitors the unique opportunity to experience art in a different context, outside the traditional gallery setting.
The exhibition will showcase selected works from artists from across the island of Ireland who exhibit both nationally and internationally, and are inspired by the garden environment.
A visit to Bangor Castle Walled Garden is a real escape and the sculptures enhance this experience even further. Some of the works are of large scale and compliment the setting whilst other, more subtle, works will need to be sought out, adding a further dimension to this engaging exhibition.
Please note the opening times below:
Monday – Thursday: 10am – 8pm
Friday – Sunday and Bank Holidays: 10am – 6pm

Re:New Wallace #6 - Time Frame
2023-05-27 11:00 - 2023-06-30 17:00 | R-Space Gallery, 32 Castle Street, Lisburn, BT27 4XE, United Kingdom
Following the continued success of the Re:New Wallace Collection exhibitions since 2018, R-Space delivers the sixth in a series of collaborative cultural projects involving a Northern Irish artist/maker and the Wallace Collection in London with selected artist, Emma Whitehead. Inspired by the journey and time spent passing through the hands of of people over time, Emma explores the compulsion to measure time, distance, the seasons, the stars, and the need to make sense of the connections that intersect with our lives.
About the artist
Emma Whitehead is a self-taught, mixed-media visual artist specialising in innovative embroidery techniques using various materials. She re-discovered a passion for surface embroidery after exploring the possibilities of other mediums and has tested the limits of needle and thread for over 25 years. Based in County Down, she is co-director of the artist-led gallery Top Floor Art Gallery & Open Studios and runs the TFA Studio Group. In 2016 she completed the Lumen Residency in Italy, exploring the themes of light and astronomy. In 2018 she spent a week training with The British Horological Institute learning the mechanics of time and how to strip and rebuild a hunter watch piece. In 2019, she received the IDA Award from the University of Atypical for research & development of new ways of working adapted to disability. These opportunities have enabled her to delve into the themes of time, space, memory and personal history, which permeate her work.

Please note, the event is open to the public Tuesday to Saturday.

Spring Collectors' Showcase
2023-05-22 10:00 - 2023-06-30 17:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
Craft NI Gallery are delighted to launch our ‘Spring Collectors’ Showcase’, a unique exhibition of one-of-a-kind pieces made by some of the most established designer-makers in Northern Ireland. Following a visit from international collectors, the gallery’s current selection shines a light on new work from some of Northern Ireland’s best contemporary craft makers.
The exhibition will give the public a rare opportunity to view and acquire work from silversmith Cara Murphy, renowned for her beautifully enamelled silver bowls, woodturner Mark Hanvey as he unveils his new ‘Graft’ pieces, or new glass work by Andrea Spencer and Scott Benefield. New or award-winning designs by Patricia Millar, John McKeag, Peter Meanley, Alison Lowry, David Cousley, John Piekaar, Sarah Cathers, Michael Moore, Chris McHugh, Anna Smyth to name but a few make this event a perfect occasion to start (or add to) a cherished craft collection from local artists.
Jewellery gets a special spotlight: Egle Banyte shows her Wave brooch, inspired by North European aesthetics; forward-thinking Anne Earls Boylan delights with her new SLS colourful 3D print designs; and Celine Traynor takes us on a time travel journey with her ‘Golden Years’ piece, a kinetic pendant made up of 24 ever increasing rings that represent the 24 years that she lived in her house on Canal Street, Newry, before it was sold.
Craft NI Gallery are looking forward to welcoming you to this exceptional event and we encourage you to visit us to see the full selection. The works, spanning across different craft disciplines, varied mediums and concepts, will give the public a thorough understanding, and hopefully a new appreciation of the talent, craftsmanship and skill available in Northern Ireland.

Pate de Verre vessels - taster session with Alison Lowry
2023-05-20 14:00 - 16:30 | SchoolHouse Glass, 36 Comber Street, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, BT24 7AZ, United Kingdom
In this short session with Alison Lowry, participants will create a unique glass vessel/shallow bowl using the ancient art of pate de verre (crushed glass paste)
Every step will be demonstrated, from creating a plaster/silica mould to mixing and packing the glass paste. The pieces will then be fired (twice) and will be ready to tidy up and collect the following Saturday morning.
Maximum 6 people per workshop. Please contact Alison to book or for further enquiries: mail@alisonlowry.co.uk

Kids Felt Making Workshop
2023-05-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Millenium Court, 2 William Street, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT62 3NX, United Kingdom
Join Andrea Hayes to learn a new skill of felt making in this new kids class!
Using a colourful array of merino wool and specialist effect fibres, kids will be taken through the wet felting process to create their own bespoke art work using wet felting and needle felting process.
Kids are asked to bring their own individual picture that they wish to work from. Andrea will guide them through the process with your selected image.
All materials will be provided, as they are included in the cost for this class.

Woodturning Open Day with Gaia Heritage Crafts
2023-05-13 12:00 - 17:00 | Gaia Heritage Crafts, Sion Mills, Strabane, United Kingdom
Gaia Heritage Crafts will be holding an Open Day on Saturday, 13th May 2023 featuring woodturning, woodcarving and green woodworking demonstrations. There will be quality wood turned items and woodturning supplies for sale in their craft shop on the day, and visitors will have to opportunity to try some activities throughout the day.

There will be demonstrations from Gaia’s woodturning club members (Crowstown Lane Woodturners) along with master craftsmen, green woodworking and turning using both pole lathe and electric lathes.

Lessons are available for individuals and small groups – please enquire on the day or via their Facebook page.

Porcelain Clocks Workshop
2023-05-13 11:30 - 16:00 | Millenium Court, 2 William Street, Portadown, Co Armagh, BT62 3NX, United Kingdom
During this workshop you will have the opportunity to work with porcelain to design and make your own wall hanging clock. You will be shown various techniques for applying texture and text onto the porcelain surface and have opportunity to try them out before starting on your clock. All tools and materials will be provided but you’re welcome to bring any items you’d like to try imprinting into the clay to add that extra personal touch. Clocks will be taken away for firing and glazing and returned to Millennium Court for collection.

Fused Glass Workshop
2023-05-13 10:00 - 14:00 | The Market Place Theatre & Arts Centre, Armagh, 9 Market Street, Armagh, BT61 7BW
This gentle introduction to glass fusing is specifically designed for complete beginners. Participants will make four glass coasters/tile sized projects 10cm square, with a seascape design using copper oxide. A number of designs will be readily available – starfish, shrimp, coral, seahorse, clam, dolphin, turtle, fish, etc. However, participants can make up their own simple design at the workshop. Tutor Keith Sheppard will teach them various design techniques; demonstrate the tools required for glass cutting, how to work safely and handle glass with confidence.
The completed fused glass coasters will be taken back to Keith’s studio for firing and returned to the venue one to two weeks later for collection.
All tools and materials will be provided. Participants may wish to bring their own safety glasses. Please wear suitable clothing and flat shoes.
Please note: completed glass decorations will not be returned by post. Collection only from the venue.

Late Night Art with ASTRL Fibres
2023-05-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Craft NI Gallery, 115 - 119 Royal Ave, Belfast, BT1 1FF, United Kingdom
𝙇𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙉𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝘼𝙧𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙋𝙖𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝘼𝙎𝙏𝙍𝙇 𝙁𝙞𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙨 will take place on Thursday, May 4th between 7 and 9pm at Craft NI Gallery, Belfast. Come along and learn about the craft practice of macramé!

Alison Pascoe is a Belfast based artist and craftsperson specialising in the craft practice of macramé, a heritage knotting technique used to create decorative patterns using rope, cord and twine. Her collections are handcrafted art pieces and functional objects for modern spaces.

The practice of knot tying is a satisfying tactile experience and a mindful meditation that integrates deep relaxation alongside a high level of concentration. There is wonderful simplicity in using a single strand to create a perfectly engineered knot and a complex and decorative pattern through repetition. Her passion is sharing the benefits of practicing macramé by crafting in community and facilitating regular macramé workshops in studio and throughout the island of Ireland. Alison will also have macramé kits available to purchase on the night – a great way to introduce this practice into your home!

𝘿𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝘼𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣’𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙙𝙪𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙩 7:30 𝙥𝙢 as she will talk us through her journey and demonstrate some macramé techniques. After that, the audience will of course have the opportunity to try their hand at tying some knots!

No booking necessary.

Elements of Place - Formed by Fire
2023-05-01 09:00 - 2023-05-05 17:00 | Andrea Spencer Glass, 35 Lagavara Road, Ballintoy, BT54 6NG, United Kingdom
‘Elements of Place – Formed by Fire’ is a five day flameworking and micro-mosaic workshop aimed at practicing glass and mosaic artists. The workshop is designed to explore these complementary hot and cold glass working techniques, in combination with simple casting and the use of natural and manmade forms. Field trips to study the dramatic landscape of the local Causeway Coast of Northern Ireland will inspire our work during the week.
Participants will be encouraged to explore a variety of glass media to construct their own micro-mosaics. The group will be guided through a variety of processes—hot glass flame-work, simple casting and filato mosaic making—to discover how best to realise their ideas in three dimensions. Workshop instruction and experimentation will be complemented by group discussions and artists’ presentations, with individual feedback provided by the tutors.
Benefield Spencer Glass is a rural retreat with a well-equipped glass studio providing a range of materials, bench torches and crucibles to support hand-pulling filati and making filato mosaics. Surrounded by open fields and farmland, close to the sea and immersed in the unique geological features that characterise this area, we will have plenty of opportunity to explore and observe pattern, structure, colour and discover found objects unearthed from nature. The combination of the studio facility and immediate access to the North Antrim Coast will provide a magnificently resourced, intensive workshop experience.
Andrea Spencer (glass) and Joanna Kessel (mosaic) are highly regarded artists within their specialist fields, frequently exhibiting their contemporary artworks nationally and internationally.
Information and booking andreaspencerglass.com

Macramé Driftwood Wall Hanging Workshop
2023-04-30 14:00 - 16:30 | Boom Studios, 80 Main Street, Bangor, BT20 3AH, United Kingdom
During this relaxed Sunday workshop participants will learn how to make their own Macramé Driftwood Wall Hanging.
No previous experience is needed for this class as Claire Dunwoody from NodoKnots will demonstrate how to master the basic knots, and create a simple yet effective Wall Hanging.
Participants will be able to choose from a range of beautiful recycled cotton cord colours, and Claire will demonstrate the knots needed to make the hanging, working through the project with you.
All materials and refreshments are included.

Gilded Pate de Verre Bowls Online Masterclass with Alison Lowry
2023-04-20 17:30 - 19:00 | Zoom
Create dramatic yet delicate gilded bowls with this three-session online course, learning from professional glass artist Alison Lowry.
During Alison’s Masterclass, you will learn mould making techniques, pâte de verre processes, and gilding finishes. All of these techniques you can transfer into your own work, with ample opportunity to get tips and advice from a professional artist.
Duration and Place

3 weeks, one session per week – a total of 4.5 hours
Online Course
Please note that classes may be slightly longer or shorter depending on student questions.

Session times

Thursday 6th April – 5.30 pm-7 pm UK time (1.5 hours)
Thursday 13th April – 5.30 pm-7 pm UK time (1.5 hours)
Thursday 20th April – 5.30 pm-7 pm UK time (1.5 hours)

Class Description:
This new 3-session class will cover all the techniques needed to make beautiful gilded pâte de verre bowls:

Mouldmaking
Mixing frits
Building forms using pate de verre
Firing schedules
Divesting
Coldworking to a professional finish
Gilding

Workshop Outcomes:

Tekta Frit mix samples
A plaster bowl mould
Multiple gilded pate de verre bowls

How it Works:

The course is made up of three live and interactive online sessions using the Zoom platform. These can be found in the navigation panel.
Alison will give a step-by-step tutorial with demonstrations, and you will have ample opportunity to ask her questions during the live class
Each week they will demonstrate a technique for you to try between sessions
A member of the Warm Glass team will also be in the Zoom class to assist you and Alison
Mix with Alison and other students on our dedicated community page, open for the duration of the course. Then join our exclusive Warm Glass UK Online Glass Community Facebook group to continue to mix with those who have attended any of our online masterclasses
A materials list is provided in the course navigation panel, so you can purchase what you need to create your pieces during the course. You don’t need absolutely everything on this list to be successful, Alison will discuss different ways to reach our technical goals

We believe that this is the best way to get the very most from the course, but if this doesn’t suit you that’s fine – if you can’t get to your studio, you can still learn the techniques and benefit from Alison’s extensive knowledge without making the pieces during the course itself.
This is a live online masterclass, but in case a student experiences issues with internet connection during the live class, a recording of each live session will be available to view until two weeks after the final session. This cannot be downloaded or shared and is only available for this limited time. By participating you agree to be recorded for this purpose.
These recordings will be available in the course navigation panel.
What to Prepare

You will need a computer, tablet, or phone with a camera and microphone in order to join the online classroom. If you are unfamiliar with using Zoom then please take some time to look at our guide, available in the navigation panel.
You should have a reliable internet connection, fast enough to make video calls or stream videos
Please read the Student Participation Agreement
Ensure that you have checked the materials list and purchased any materials you may require
A pen and paper to take any notes.
We restrict the class size to 25 people
We teach using Bullseye Glass (CoE90)

Please follow the link below for all the details of this event.
