STAMP festival makes its mark with return to Cork

Interactive visual arts, craft and design festivalSTAMP returns to Cork City from May 16 to 18.

Organised by Benchspace, Cork Craft & Design, Sample-Studios, and Shandon Art Studios, the festival features demonstrations, workshops, and exhibitions at the Triskel Arts Centre.

Most of the 35 events, such as lino printing, basket making, weaving, needle-felting, product-styling and lampshade-making, are free, but booking is required for some. The STAMP market will take place on May 17 and 18 and will have 25 exhibitors this year.

Lord Mayor of Cork Kieran McCarthy said that STAMP is about “igniting a passion for creativity in the hearts of local people” and said he was pleased that the festival is running for a third year. “Last year it was great to see over 4,000 people in attendance and hopefully, we’ll see the same this year.”

Highlights include a free panel discussion with visual artist Shane O’Driscoll, known for his striking, large-scale murals; textiles artist Mary Palmer, a DJing and music-production lesson with Stevie G; demos on woodturning with Tony Farrell, and a zine-making workshop with Elize de Beer.

“This is a chance for visitors from Cork and beyond to embrace their creativity and gain new insight in to the work of our talented artists, craftspeople and designers who are contributing to Cork’s cultural vibrancy,” said Michelle Carew, arts officer of Cork City Council.

Emma Jacobs, festival manager of STAMP Festival, said that facilitating members of the public to speak to and work with artists, makers and crafters closely over the weekend, “we’re ensuring our team makes their well-deserved mark on Cork’s future”.

STAMP Festival is supported by Cork City Council, Local Enterprise Office Cork City, the Arts Council of Ireland, We are Cork, Creative Ireland programme administered by the Cork City Arts Office and venue partner, Triskel Arts Centre.

See www.stampcork.ie.