In celebration of twenty-five years of sustaining and nurturing creative Irish businesses, we are proud to launch The Leitrim Design House National Design, Craft & Art Awards. These national awards celebrate excellence in craftsmanship and stem from the organisation’s resilience and sustainability as a business over the past two decades

As a reflection of this longevity, The Leitrim Design House invites makers, artists, and designers from across the country to respond to the theme of reused sustainability

The Leitrim Design House National Design, Craft & Art Award (€2,500) will be presented for the best overall submission. The winner will also be invited to hold a solo exhibition at The Leitrim Design House in 2026. Additionally, a Special Commendation Prize (€1,000) will be awarded to a runner-up

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Local Enterprise Office Leitrim for their generous sponsorship of these awards

For terms and conditions and rules of entry here

Key Dates:
- Expression of interest opens from: 11:00am Friday 4th April 2025
- Deadline for submission of applications: 6:00pm Friday 27th June 2025
- Applicants selected for the shortlist will be notified: Friday 11th July 2025
- The Leitrim Craft & Design Exhibition and announcement of finalists: Friday 15th August 2025

Eligibility Criteria:

1.      The Leitrim Design House National Design, Craft & Art Awards are open to makers, artists, and designers living and working on the island of Ireland

2.      The awards are open to practicing makers, artists, and designers at any career stage who can demonstrate artistic merit and expertise in their chosen field

3.      Applications will not be accepted from students undertaking full-time study

 
Judging Criteria:
- Craftsmanship – Excellence in artisan skill and technique
- Innovation – Transformation or metamorphosis in technique, structure, form or function
- Design – a combination of structure, function and decoration that enhances contemporary living
- Engagement – A meaningful with the theme of sustainability either through materials and/or concept

Application Process:
1. Only one submission is permitted per applicant
2. Begin the registration process by filling out the expression of interest form here
3. If accepted, you will later receive an email inviting you to complete the registration process by filling out the final application (€10 entry fee)
 
Guidelines:

All works must:

• Address the theme of sustainability, either through materials and/or concept
  - Be created on the Island of Ireland
  - Fit within the area of the applied arts, such as ceramics, jewellery, metal, furniture, leather, textiles, glass, paper, wood, etc
  - Demonstrate artistic intent in addition to technical proficiency
  - Be an original piece
  - Be new work that has not been exhibited elsewhere
  - Only one submission is permitted per applicant
  - Be created by professional artisans 18 years or older