Exhibition: Cork Textiles Network Show in Bishopstown Library – Co Cork

Promotional poster for the CTN Members show and collaboration project titled 'Aistear'. Features abstract patterns in pink and red, with event details including date from April 2 to 29, 2026, and an opening reception at 3pm on April 2nd, held at Bishopstown Library.


The Cork Textiles Network‘s (CTN) spring exhibition theme is Aistear, the Irish word for a journey of experience. The exhibition includes a wide and varied selection of textile and fabric disciplines from appliqué, felting, weaving, embroidery, batik, and mixed media.

Several of Feltmakers Ireland members belong to the CTN and have artwork in the exhibition, including Maggie McCartney (whose work is on the poster), Cara Shank, Karima Rebecca Powell, and Emily Thompson.

The show also showcases a large collaborative project that CTN members undertook last year: a large wall hanging featuring the work of 36 artists who responded to a specific brief to create a piece of art that resonates with imagination, creativity and skill.

When: The show runs through Tuesday, the 29th of April.

Where: Bishopstown Library, Sarsfield Rd, Wilton, Cork T12 RR84

More information about the organisation can be found on their website – https://corktextilesnetwork.com/

Their Instagram – @corktextiles

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Questions: For questions about the content, please follow the link to the organisation hosting the event.

Exhibition: Ashes to Fashion, 50 Years of Collecting – Ulster Museum

A black, sequinned evening dress displayed on a mannequin, featured in the 'Ashes to Fashion' exhibition at the Ulster Museum, highlighting 50 years of fashion collection.

The opening of ‘Ashes to Fashion‘ has been eagerly anticipated as a landmark cultural moment for Northern Ireland, commemorating 50 years since the devastating 1976 Malone House fire that destroyed almost the entire museum’s original fashion and textile collection. After years of research, curation, and acquisition, a new collection is now on display, comprising around 6,000 objects, with 140 on display, including accessories.

Where: Ulster Museum, Stranmillis Road, Botanic Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5AB, Northern Ireland

When: The show runs until Sunday, the 13th of September.

On the website, there is a wonderful video of the curators carefully tending to the pieces.

For more information and to book a ticket, visit their website – https://www.ulstermuseum.org/temporary-exhibition/ashes-fashion

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

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Questions: For questions about the content, please follow the link to the organisation hosting the event.

Recap: Opening of ‘Water and Flow’ Exhibition – Phoenix Park Visitor Centre

A man with glasses and a mustache presenting at a wooden podium in front of blue artworks on a stone wall.
Conor O’Brien launched our exhibition

Feltmakers Ireland’s ‘Water and Flow’ exhibition was officially launched on Saturday, 4th April at 3 PM in the beautiful gallery of the OPW’s Phoenix Park Visitor Centre. The event was opened by knitwear designer Conor O’Brien, who shared insights into his creative journey, from studying at the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) to discovering Aran knitting through a college assignment, with guidance from his grandmother. He also spoke about his strong support for using Irish-raised wool in his work, highlighting the importance of local materials and heritage in contemporary design. Learn more about Conor from his website- https://conorobrienstudio.com/

The exhibition features 67 striking pieces of felted artwork, showcasing the breadth and creativity of contemporary feltmaking. The opening was very well attended, with approximately 140 people present to celebrate the occasion. Since the launch, several works have been purchased by visitors.

Water and Flow‘ will continue to run until Sunday, 26th April, offering further opportunities to experience this vibrant and engaging exhibition.

Some Photos of the Launch

Photos courtesy of Tom Macagno, Loli Cox, and members’ contributions.

The Gallery

Artists with their Artwork

Last year, in the blog post about our ‘Common Threads’ exhibition at the National Design and Craft Gallery in Kilkenny, we included a section featuring members alongside their pieces. As this is an engaging feature, we hope to get a photo of each member in the show.

If we overlooked you at the opening, or you have yet to visit, can you please take a photo of yourself next to your piece and email it to the following address: feltmakerIE@gmail.com

Online Catalogue

Here’s a link to Feltmakers Ireland’s online catalogue of ‘Water and Flow’

There is also a PDF version of the catalogue.

Appreciation

Thank you to everyone who helped make this exhibition such a success.

Many thanks to Conor O’Brien for launching the exhibition with his interesting talk, to our members for contributing their fantastic artwork, and to Annika Berglund and Fiona Leech for displaying everything so beautifully. Additionally, we would like to thank Loli Cox for introducing our guest speaker. We’re also very grateful to the committee members for organising and setting up the lovely refreshments. Finally, we want to thank the OPW Phoenix Park Visitor Centre for again inviting us to use their stunning gallery for our annual exhibition.

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For questions about the content, please follow the link to the organisation hosting the event.

Exhibition: Feltmakers Ireland Presents ‘Water and Flow’ Exhibition – Phoenix Park Visitor Centre Gallery – Dublin

'Water and Flow' Feltmakers Ireland Group Exhibition poster, featuring felt artwork by Joanne Turner. Details about the exhibition location at Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, dates from 2nd to 26th April, and opening hours. Announcement of a launch event with knitwear designer Conor O'Brien on the 4th.

Feltmakers Ireland is delighted to present ‘Water and Flow’, a vibrant group exhibition featuring the contemporary artwork of 68 members. This showcase explores the many interpretations of water through the rich and versatile medium of felt.

From gentle streams to powerful oceans, ‘Water and Flow‘ explores the many moods of water: its energy and stillness, its capacity for renewal, and its connection to human emotion, from sorrow to joy.

Using fibres ranging from imported Merino wool to locally sourced Irish fleece, members have created a diverse body of work that highlights both traditional and contemporary felting practices. Featuring an array of textile techniques, including wet felting and needle felting, guild members have created three-dimensional sculptures, wall art, and wearable pieces, each offering a unique perspective on the theme, reflecting the creativity and individuality of the artists involved.

The Opening

The exhibition will be officially launched by knitwear designer Conor O’Brien on Saturday, 4 April at 3 PM.

Where and When

The exhibition is at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre Gallery and runs from Thursday, the 2nd of April, to Sunday, the 26th of April. The hours are 9:30 AM to 5 PM, daily, with the exhibition closing on its final day at 3 PM.

The gallery is conveniently accessible by Dublin Bus number 99 and is located within the historic Phoenix Park. There is ample parking near the Centre.

For further details, including maps and directions to the park, visit https://www.phoenixpark.ie/directions.

The artwork featured on the exhibition poster is ‘Waterfall’ by Joanne Turner.

Her Instagram @olannoriginals

We warmly invite you to join us for the opening or visit throughout the month to experience this dynamic and engaging exhibition celebrating feltmaking in Ireland.

Online Catalogue

A link to Feltmakers Ireland’s online catalogue of ‘Water and Flow’

There is also a PDF version of the catalogue (if the above link is not working for you).

Of Interest: The Alpaca National Show – Includes Crafts from Alpaca – Mullingar

Promotional poster for the Alpaca National Show 2026, featuring details such as the date (29th March), location (Mullingar Equestrian Centre), and ticket prices. The design includes images of alpacas, visitors interacting with them, and displays from previous events.

The Alpaca Association of Ireland (AAI) is holding their National Halter and Craft Show soon.

When: Sunday, the 29th of March.

Where: Mullingar Equestrian Centre, Athlone Road, Rathcolman, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, N91 EH30

More information at – https://www.alpaca.ie/

@alpacaassociationofireland

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For content-related questions, please follow the link to the organisation hosting the event.

Exhibition: Dressing Dublin – Made in Blackrock – Irish Textile History

A black and white historical photograph of a smiling young woman working at a sewing machine in a factory setting, with the text 'Dressing Outline' and 'Made in Blackrock' overlayed.

The exhibition ‘Dressing Dublin: Made in Blackrock‘ explores the former local textile industry, the people who worked in it and how it was influenced by national and international economic forces. The project showcases the small area around Brookfield Terrace and Carysfort Avenue in Blackrock, County Dublin, which produced, until the 1980s, locally made textiles, hosiery, shirts, workwear, and much more. 

Where: Blackrock Library, Main St, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 YF76

The exhibition runs through Monday, the 9th of March.

If you cannot make it to the exhibition, you can learn more through Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council’s YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/@DLRofficial

There is a 30-minute film, an audio tour and an extended interview hosted by fashion historian, Laura Fitzachary.

The 22-minute film has interviews with former employees, Liam Dodd and Christine Fitzachary, which captures this history before this part of our local heritage disappears. Through these conversations, we can also review the current state of the clothing industry in Ireland today.

Watch the film here, on the DLRCC’s YouTube channel – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-AfWyqs_F8

There is an 18-minute audio guide of the exhibition – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUHd3TAgfYc&t=3s

A longer audio interview with Laura Fitzachary and former employee Christine Fitzachary discusses the local textile history – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ppls5FP9lc&t=1101s

For more information about the show, visit the library website – https://libraries.dlrcoco.ie/events-and-news/event-calendar/dressing-dublin-made-blackrock

Laura Fitzachary’s Instagram: @seekthehistoric

DLR Instagram: @dlrheritage


Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For questions about content, please follow the link to the organisation involved in hosting the event.

Exhibition: Wearable Art by Claire Garvey – Made in Wicklow Invited Guest 2026 – Powerscourt House

As part of Made in Wicklow’s ‘For the Love of Creativity’ series, Claire Garvey presents ‘From Canvas to Cloth’, an exhibition featuring 15 bespoke, hand-crafted, and hand-beaded pieces of wearable art. Each garment is inspired by one of Claire’s ten favourite paintings, with influences ranging from the bold strokes of Van Gogh and Miro to the intricate worlds of Botticelli and HR Giger.

Claire Garvey is a bespoke designer with a couture shop in the heart of Temple Bar, on Cow’s Lane, Dublin. She has designed for the Oscars, the Emmys, the X-Factor, and the Cannes Film Festival. She specialises in one-off outfits for musicians and celebrities and is a celebrated advocate for ‘slow fashion’ and sustainability, hand-making every piece in her workshop with a focus on recycled trims and exquisite craftsmanship.

When: The show runs through Sunday, 1st March, 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Free entry.

Where: The Garden Room, Powerscourt House, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow

For more information about the exhibition, visit the Made in Wicklow website – https://madeinwicklow.com/powerscourt-2026/

To see more of her work, visit her website – https://www.clairegarvey.com/

Her Instagram – @clairegarveydesigner_

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For questions about content, please follow the link to the organisation involved in hosting the event.

Open Call: 24th Annual Mini Textile Exhibition – Slovak Association of Textile Artists

Promotional poster for the 24th International Mini Textile Exhibition organised by the TXT - Slovak Association of Textile Artists. The theme is 'Empathy' with an entry deadline of February 28th, 2026. Includes a QR code and information in both English and Slovak.

The Association of Textile Artists of Slovakia invites artists to participate in its 24th annual international juried exhibition of textile miniatures. There is a size limitation of 20 by 20 by 20 cm.

The theme of the exhibition is EMPATHY.

From the organisers:

“Empathy is an apparently natural human feeling – the ability to perceive another person in our surroundings and to enter into their experience of joyful as well as complex, even tragic, situations.

Empathy is not a given.

It does not arise automatically simply because we share the same space or follow the same news. It is a fragile state of attentiveness – the ability to momentarily withdraw from one’s own world and allow oneself to be affected by the experience of another. Without the need to judge, correct, or seek solutions.

At a time when suffering becomes a distant image and reality is reduced to rapid information, empathy slows us down. It compels us to stay. With a gaze, with a gesture, with silence. It is neither loud nor spectacular. It is inconspicuous, and precisely for that reason vulnerable. It requires the courage to remain open even where it would be easier to look away.”

Where: Galéria Umelka, Bratislava, Slovakia

Deadline: Saturday, the 28th of February.

For more information, visit the European Textile Network‘s listing – https://etn-net.org/berichte/open-call-24th-textile-miniature-empathygal%C3%A9ria-umelka-bratislava-skdeadline-28-02-2026.html

The original post is here – http://www.txt.sk/index-en.html

Instagram @etn_european_textile_network

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For questions about content, please follow the link to the organisation involved in hosting the event.

Exhibition: Element15 – ‘ROOTS:An Exhibition of Textile Art and Poetry’ – Co Waterford

Textile group Element15‘s ‘ROOTS: An Exhibition of Textile Art and Poetry’ is now showing at Green Acres Gallery, Co Wexford.

The show features the group’s artwork and the poetry of Jane Clarke.

Element15 is a collective based in Co Kildare. Individual artists develop their own practice in tandem with each other, distinct but connected. Element15’s exhibition, ‘ROOTS‘, is inspired by the work of Co Wicklow-based poet Jane Clarke. 

Elaine Peden and Marie Dunne, members of the Feltmakers Ireland guild, are part of the Element15 and have pieces in the exhibition.

When: The show runs until the 31st of January.

Where: Green Acres Gallery, 2 Lower George’s St, Selskar St, Townparks, Wexford, Y35 RW7C

For more information, visit the gallery’s website – https://greenacresgallery.ie/

Their Instagram: @element15textile @jane_clarke_poet @greenacresirl @elainepeden

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For questions about content, please follow the link to the organisation involved in hosting the event.

Exhibition: Karena Ryan – Solo Show at The Leitrim Design House

Feltmakers Ireland guild member Karena Ryan has a solo exhibition, ‘Inherited Threads’, at The Leitrim Design House.

Karena’s collection of textile work interlaces together ancestry, memory, and the quiet connections that bind us to the land and to one another. Rooted in stories passed down through generations, her pieces reimagine fragments of the past through fibre, stitch, and texture, serving as acts of remembrance held within cloth.

The show runs until January 30th, 2026.

Where: The Leitrim Design House, The Dock Arts Centre, St George’s Terrace, Townparks, Carrick-On-Shannon, Co. Leitrim, N41 T2X2

For more information, visit the gallery’s website – https://leitrimdesignhouse.ie/blogs/news/artwall-karena-ryan

The Gallery and Karena’s Instagram @theleitrimdesignhouse @karenaryantextiles

Disclaimer for Feltmakers Ireland Blog

Feltmakers Ireland aims to share information about awards, education, events, exhibitions, and opportunities that you will find interesting. Our sharing is neither paid for by nor an endorsement of these individuals or organisations.

Contact Us: If you have any concerns about content, please email us at feltmakersie@gmail.com.

Questions: For content-related questions, please follow the link to the organisation hosting the event.

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