Originally set up as Cavan Monaghan Art And Craft Network, Cavan Monaghan Crafts has existed in its current guise since the end of 2010. Yasmin Maassarani talks to chairperson, Anne Godwin to find out more.

Louise Loughman at work. One of the many craftspeople working in the region.

2011 has been designated the year of Craft so it is reassuring to know that our region has an active and vibrant craft sector.

With over 40 members, Ann explained that the main aim of the group is to encourage the development of crafts. “The primary goal of the network is to promote the development and awareness of crafts in the region. It also aims to offer support and encouragement to all its members, amateur as well as professional. By the nature of the work, many of those involved in the craft sector work alone and often do not have the interaction with work colleagues that a lot of us take for granted; the Network offers an opportunity to reduce the ‘isolation’ factor. Meeting with fellow craftspeople or having a contact to ask ‘where do I find…. or any idea how to……’ can be a great help.”

The Network was originally established in December 1999 with the help and support of Peter Pollock, Craft Officer with Cavan Monaghan Rural Development (now called Cavan Monaghan LEADER). The Network was registered with the Crafts Council of Ireland in 2001. Originally designed to emcompass both artists and craftworkers, the group started to focus solely on crafts  at the end of  2010.