Two Carlow crafters selected for a very prestigious workshop in Sweden

Two Carlow crafters have been selected for a very prestigious European Craft Workshop in Sweden

Carlow will be represented on the European stage through the participation of two local crafters, Isabel Lucas and Clare Jordan, in Stone & Soul: Sustainable Lithography, Linoleum and Paper for Contemporary Artists.

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This three-day hybrid workshop, hosted by the Craft Academy Sweden at the Helliden Folk High School in Skövde, is widely recognised as a significant forum for the advancement of sustainable craft practices in Europe.

The workshop forms part of Craft Work 4.0, a pan-European initiative supported by the Creative Europe programme with Carlow County Council as the Irish partner. The central aim of this initiative is to reinterpret traditional craft techniques within the framework of sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

The programme brings together fifty participants from twelve European countries, including Ireland, Greece, France, and Sweden. Of these, twenty-eight participants will engage in person, with a further twenty-two joining online. The collaborative nature of this initiative ensures that a broad range of cultural traditions and professional perspectives are represented.

Throughout the programme, participants will receive practical instruction in heritage techniques such as lithography, linoleum cutting, and handmade paper-making. These sessions will be complemented by cross-cultural collaborations in which participants will work together to design and prototype new craft products that embody principles of sustainability.

In addition, expert-led sessions will focus on inclusive creative practices and environmentally responsible business models, thereby supporting both the artistic and entrepreneurial development of those involved.

The selection of Isabel Lucas and Clare Jordan reflects not only their individual talent but also Carlow’s growing contribution to the European craft sector. Speaking on this achievement, Councillor Ken Murnane, Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, noted:

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“We are immensely proud of Isabel and Clare for being selected to showcase Carlow’s craft talent at this prestigious European platform. The craft sector is a vital part of our cultural and economic identity, and through EU-supported projects like Craft Work 4.0, we are ensuring that our makers can access world-class learning, collaboration, and opportunities.”

Carlow County Council continues to demonstrate strong engagement in European initiatives. In addition to Craft Work 4.0, the Council is actively involved in projects such as InnoCom Interreg Europe, which promotes innovation and competitiveness, Hands Across Generations under the Erasmus+ programme, which fosters intergenerational learning, and the Enterprise Europe Network, which supports small and medium enterprises in expanding internationally.

Collectively, these initiatives strengthen Carlow’s role within European networks and ensure that the county remains at the forefront of innovation and collaboration.

Speaking about these projects Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development and Enterprise at Carlow County Council, said,

“Participation in EU projects is a key pillar in our development strategy. By working with European partners, we expose our communities to new ideas, cultures, and ways of working. This not only strengthens our innovation ecosystem but also builds lasting partnerships that benefit Carlow businesses and communities.

"Craft Work 4.0 is a clear example of how EU collaboration translates into real opportunities for local talent.”

For further information on Craft Work 4.0 All contact Lisa Hutton, EU Project Co-ordinator on enterprise@carlowcoco.ie or by calling 059/9129783