In celebration of twenty-five years of sustaining and nurturing creative Irish businesses, The Leitrim Design House is proud to launch the 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.
Prize fund:
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.
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 Design House Awards Exhibition launch and announcement of finalists: Friday 15th August 2025
Eligibility Criteria:
- The Leitrim Design House National Design, Craft & Art Awards are open to makers, artists, and designers living and working on the island of Ireland
- 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
- 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
