Kilkenny furniture maker represents Ireland at leading international craft and design fair
Antonio Bozic has offered a heartfelt thank you to the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCI) for their invaluable support of Irish creatives
Antonio Bozic, a furniture maker from Kilkenny, was one of 14 artists who represented Ireland at Collect 2025, a leading international fair for contemporary craft and design that took place recently in Somerset House.
"I am incredibly proud to be exhibiting my work for the first time at Collect, one of the most prestigious showcases of contemporary craft and design," Antonio said in a statement made prior to the event.
"This opportunity is a significant milestone in my creative journey, and I am honored to be part of such a vibrant and inspiring community of makers.
"A heartfelt thank you to the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCI) for their invaluable support of Irish creatives. Their dedication to nurturing and promoting craftsmanship makes opportunities like this possible."
The 14 artists and makers that were selected for this year’s fair, highlighting fresh talent from Ireland, were Paola di Legge (Mixed Media Constructing); Martin Ryan (Woodturning); Michael Murphy (Woodturning); Alison Nea (Fashion Design); Edwyn James Hickey (Furniture Making); Darragh Mulryan (Print Making); Katharina Treml (Ceramics); Antonio Bozic (Furniture Making); John Farrell (Furniture Making); Maria Atanackovic (Printmaking); Michael Healey (Furniture Making); Noel Donnellan (Ceramics); Claire Mooney (Silversmith) and Richard Butler (Cabinet Maker).
Commenting on the opening of Collect 2025, Mary Blanchfield, Kilkenny native and Interim CEO at Design & Crafts Council Ireland said that "this year’s participation marks another milestone in showcasing the incredible talent, creativity, and craftsmanship that Ireland has to offer."
"Through our continued collaboration with Crafts Council UK, and the Department of Foreign Affairs, we are proud to further elevate the global presence of Irish design," she continued.
"Collect offers a unique platform for these artists to connect with an international audience, reinforcing the importance of Irish craftsmanship within the global cultural landscape."