Yarn bombings, street pianos, a Bohemian Festival – just some of the many events taking place at this year’s August Craft Month – the biggest in its four year history.

Craft NI is inviting people to learn a new skill, observe the work of international makers, and, if tempted, to buy something that’s different original and locally-made.

This year’s theme of ‘Slow’ is inspired by the ideas and spirit of the Slow Movement, a global phenomenon that is a welcome antidote to the hectic pace of modern life.
Craft practice is naturally attuned to the principles of ‘Slow’. Indeed craft was slow long before Slow was Slow! At the heart of craft beats the values of quality and individual expression. Quality of design, that is cutting-edge and innovative as well as building on tradition. Contemporary craft takes us beyond what’s presented in the High Street and give us choice about the clothes and jewellery we wear and the objects we have in our homes.

Highlights include: Taking Time: Craft & The Slow Revolution; Jack Doherty Ceramics Exhibition; ‘Slow Coast’ Ireland; Jerwood Contemporary Makers 2010; European Basketmaking; The Woodsmith – Hans Henning Pedersen; ‘Slow burn’ Ceramics Exhibition and Three x 3 Glass Exhibition.

During the month look out for Yarn bombing, also known as knit graffiti – where designers ‘customise’ well known landmarks by hanging colourful and distinctive pieces of knitting on them. And there is also Street Pianos, an interactive event where the public is invited to play pianos that have been painted by artists and community groups and placed in locations throughout Belfast.

For more information contact Craft NI info@craftni.org / 023 90323059

“Both Craft and the Slow Movement think through where things are made and by whom and engage in ideas of provenance - being immersed in a rich narrative of human experience; asking us to slow down, perhaps not literally but certainly philosophically, and to reflect on other and perhaps more thoughtful ways of doing things.” Helen Carnac (2009), Taking Time: Craft and the Slow Revolution." Helen Carnac, Curator, Taking Time: Craft & The Slow Revolution.

URL: http://craftni.staging.designbyfront.com/augustcraftmonth