A Laois craftsman and fast-rising talent in handmade furniture circles will showcase his amazing steam bent wood pieces at Gifted – The Contemporary Craft and Design Fair.
With over 500 designers, makers and artisan producers displaying original gifts, the traditional opening to the festive season in Dublin is set to attract over 45,000 people to the RDS Main Hall over five days, from December 5-9.
Multi-award winner Alan Meredith, who has a background in architecture, uses a novel method to manipulate wood into various shapes to create furniture masterpieces.
“I try to bend the inherent structural properties of wood using steam. The wood is then dried and molded into a new form,” he said.
Using this technique allows Alan to form many interesting structures. He will be showcasing unique walnut chairs, ebonised ash shelves and other pieces at Gifted.
“I will also be displaying my new edition of wood turned vessels. These oak vessels have two different textures, smooth and textured, to imitate acorns. The pieces are called Dearcan, which is the Gaelic for acorn.”
The 27-year-old from Mountmellick draws inspiration from time spent working in Sweden.
“There is a good tradition of using wood in many public structures and homes, so I think that ethos influences my work.”
Other producers from Co Laois who will display their gift ideas include GM Woodcraft from Portarlington.
“Gifted is a celebration of Christmas giving and will feature the country’s largest collection of thoughtful gifts for your loved ones,” said organiser Patrick O’Sullivan.
“It is a unique opportunity to interact with the most creative people in Ireland and discover thousands of original products available only at Gifted.
“Our curated offering gives you the opportunity to secure once-off presents from a wide selection of contemporary Irish jewellery, fashion, accessories, ceramics, interiors, art, photography, and children’s gifts.
“Giving a Gifted gift to loved ones this Christmas means that they will receive a present that has been lovingly created and probably can’t be sourced anywhere else.”
Gifted also features The Spectacular Christmas Food Emporium with over 100 artisan food producers, where you can meet the experts who can help you plan and source every aspect of your festive meal right up to the bronzed turkey.
There will be 10% off everything at Gifted on the opening day, Wednesday, December 5.
Gifted – The Contemporary Craft and Design Fair takes place at the RDS Main Hall from December 5-9 from 10am each day. Full details and booking can be found at www.giftedfair.ie
SEE ALSO – Death has occurred of well-known Laois man George Dobson
