Divine design

Esther N McCarthy on an inspirational exhibition celebrating furniture design.

FURNITURE can be many things. A sturdy table to set your coffee cup on, something practical to store your books, a convenience to eat your food at.

To fully appreciate how furniture can truly transcend to art, how style, function, design and artistry can combine to create a piece of work that is simply beautiful, I recommend you visit the exhibition at Farmleigh Gallery, Phoenix Park, Dublin, celebrating the 25th anniversary of GMIT Letterfrack, the National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design and Technology.

Started yesterday, and running until Dec 20, the show will exhibit a range of striking, thought-provoking finished furniture items from students and staff as well as works from emerging and established bespoke designer makers who are graduates of the campus such as John Lee, Brian Murray, Dunleavy Bespoke, Martin Gallagher and Jens Kosak.

“The Farmleigh Exhibition will demonstrate the creativity and exceptional talents of students and graduates of GMIT Letterfrack and the uniqueness of the programmes on offer,” Dermot O’Donovan, head of department of GMIT Letterfrack, says.

“As well as furniture projects, the show will include a range of two dimensional flat work, a visual presentation and relaxation area and interactive technology areas.

It will be particularly relevant for people with an interest in furniture, design, technology, education and creativity.”

An evening lecture series on Nov 8 and 22 and on Dec 6 in Farmleigh will accompany the eight-week exhibition. For any design enthusiasts further west, GMIT Letterfrack will also host a series of seminars.

The centre offers degree programmes in furniture design, technology and in training for post-primary teachers. See www.gmit.ie or www.facebook.com/OfficialGMITLetterfrack.