Double win for Mayo furniture maker in Design & Crafts Council awards

A MAYO student has been announced as a double winner in the Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) Future Makers Awards 2024.

Future Makers is a DCCI initiative which recognises talent, potential and creativity, showcasing the talent of the next generation of makers, designers and craftspeople to take the step from training into enterprise.

In the student and recent graduates’ category, furniture maker Diane (Meiriona) Best from Co. Mayo was announced as the Overall Student winner. She also won the Travel & Training Support award.

This year’s competition saw an impressive range of entries from all around Ireland, with each demonstrating a unique approach to creating beautiful and functional works of art. From furniture and fashion design to ceramics and glassblowing, the shortlisted makers represent the most innovative and creative young designers and makers in Ireland, spanning both student and emerging practitioner categories.

Examples of Diane's work below:

Dara Calleary, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, said: “The Future Makers Awards highlights the incredible talent and innovation within Ireland's design and craft sectors. For the past 15 years, the government's ongoing support of these awards has been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of designers and craftspeople, providing them with the recognition and financial support necessary to further develop their talent.

“The diversity and quality of the work this year not only showcases the extraordinary potential of our emerging talent but also reflects the bright future of Irish craftsmanship that we are proud to invest in and support.”