|
|
Oliver gets crafty on RTE
19.09.11
by Linda McGrory
AN up-and-coming fashion designer from Inishowen is
to battle it out for a chance to become Ireland's
next big craft export.
Oliver Doherty, from Ballyharry, is one of just 15
apprentices on Craft Master, a new six-part RTE
series celebrating the Year of Craft 2011.
The North West Regional Collect textiles student and
two other hopefuls spent two weeks with Beth Moran,
a master weaver who lives and works on picturesque
Clare Island.
They had to learn to source their raw materials and
take a product from design to completion - including
catching and shearing sheep for their wool. Oliver
has been supported in his bid by Donegal Yarn. |
“Being involved in the
show was one of the best experiences I’ve had. It
was a real learning curve, as I had never worked on
weaving in this way before, and the challenges we
were set really tested me to my limits.
"I was so pleased to be able to include the wool
supplied by Donegal Yarn in my final piece, as I am
keen to explore and support local producers in my
designs and work.”
Oliver has been described as having the potential to
be one of Ireland’s top fashion designers. One of
his dress designs impressed singer songwriter
Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine last
year.
Viewers can see Oliver’s experience on Clare Island
and the challenges set for the candidates in the
semi-final this Tuesday on RTE One at 7pm. |
 |
|
Oliver Doherty. |
|
If he reaches the
final, the young student's work will be judged by
Brian McGee and Derek McGarry of the National
College of Art and Design in Dublin, as well as
celebrity judges, Paul Costelloe and Louise Kennedy.
The overall Craft Master 2011 will win a coveted
exhibition stand at Show Case Ireland and a €1000
cash prize. |
|
