John Spillane to perform at opening of Cork craft festival

The countdown is on for the annual Cork Craft Month, as makers from across the city and county put their finishing touches on 99 events scheduled for August.

The festival, organised by Cork Craft & Design, will officially open with a launch party at Fota House Arboretum and Gardens on Friday at 5.30pm, with no pre booking required.

The free opening event will feature a special performance by award-winning musician and songwriter, John Spillane, and the unveiling of Echoes of the Makers, a members’ showcase exhibition celebrating 20 years of Cork Craft & Design, which will run until August 31.

This year’s festival line-up features events ranging from hands-on workshops and artist talks to exhibitions, demonstrations, and family-friendly activities, all of which are available to book online.

Cork Craft Month festival director Ava Hayes said this year’s milestone event boasts their “most ambitious programme” yet.

“This year’s festival is a true celebration of creativity, community, and legacy,” she said. “We’re proud to mark 20 years of Cork Craft & Design with our most ambitious programme to date for Cork Craft Month, kicking off with a magical evening at Fota House.

“Having John Spillane perform at the opening adds a beautiful layer of local artistry to the celebration.

“We’re also thrilled to unveil Echoes of the Makers, a powerful exhibition that invites visitors to explore the intimate connection between maker and material

.”

Cork Craft Month is supported by the Local Enterprise Office, Design & Crafts Council Ireland, August Craft Month, Cork City Council, Cork County Council, Cork Education and Training Board, Creative Ireland, Failte Ireland, The Heritage Council and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Munster Technological University, Friend of the Crawford Art Gallery and Benchspace.