One of the few things that we can thank the recession for is the emergence of pop-up shops. These quirky, sporadic outlets are the perfect place to pick up a flash bargain. The Irish Design Shop is a great example of this new shopping experience that's become so popular recently in Ireland.
With craft being of great importance this year, (2011 being designated the title of Year of Craft by the Crafts Council of Ireland and Craft Northern Ireland) it seems only fitting that The Irish Design Shop pops-up in the National Gallery, Merrion Square West, Dublin 2. For the whole month of June, customers will be able to purchase the works of a selection of Irish artisans, everything from ceramics, textiles, jewellery and prints to tableware and much more.
To coincide with the celebrations, the gallery will be hosting a series of free talks and lectures relating to all things craft. Eight lectures will be running over the month, on Tuesdays and Sundays. With speakers such as David Shaw Smith, from the classic RTE series ‘Hands’, writer John Hearne and Tadhg and Simon O’ Driscoll from O’ Driscoll furniture, there will be something for everyone. The Irish Design Shop will also continue to operate from their city centre location, on Bow Lane East, Dublin 2.
So pop along to the National Gallery this June, for an excuse to shop homewares and learn something crafty.
By Colette Doyle
