Locally-crafted gifts at MADE in Kilkenny's Christmas pop-up shop

MADE in Kilkenny's annual Christmas pop-up shop is now open on John Street, Kilkenny. The pop-up welcomes visitors from 10am to 6pm every day until Christmas Eve.

Thirteen local craftspeople have come together to make it effortless and convenient for Christmas shoppers to buy locally made Kilkenny crafts at a city centre location on John Street.

Made in Kilkenny was established in 2007 to foster excellence in craftsmanship. Kilkenny has long had a reputation as a centre of creativity. The pop-up is the perfect opportunity to 'shop local', support local craftspeople and buy unique, handmade pieces from the talented members of MADE in Kilkenny.

“We want everyone to experience the exceptional quality of our handcrafted gifts and hope that people will consider adding a piece of craft to their Christmas list this year,” said MADE in Kilkenny spokesperson Kathleen Leadbetter.

“By buying a local piece of craft, you are supporting the local economy and preserving a proud tradition of craft in the county.”

MADE in Kilkenny is a multidisciplinary craft group of 29 makers working in nine different craft disciplines. It has a mission to promote Kilkenny County as the premier destination in Ireland for authentic handmade Irish crafts of exceptional quality.

Testament to its members’ skill and dedication, in 2021, Kilkenny was designated as World Crafts Council City and Region of Craf — one of just five designations in Europe.

ARTISTS

The MADE in Kilkenny pop-up features work by Aisling McElwain, Sonja Guenther (Jars of Clay), Rosemarie Durr, Grainne Watts, Catherine Conroy, Doireann O’Riordan, Eimear Vize, Larry Kinsela (Moth to a Flame), Jerpoint Glass Studio, Eric Phillips, Heike Kahle, Eoghan Leadbetter, and Klause Hartmann.

For those wishing to give unique craft gifts this year, visit the Made in Kilkenny pop-up shop on John's Street, open until December 24 from 10am – 6pm daily. See www.madeinkilkenny.ie.