Inspirational Surroundings and Creativity Abounding in Co. Leitrim

In the Western Region more than 11,000 people are employed in the region’s creative sector, it is no surprise that Co. Leitrim has the highest proportion of people working within the creative sector – 4.4% of total employment in the county, which subsequently generates high quality employment and stimulating innovation in other sectors.  This is according to Creative West: The Creative Sector in the Western Region, a 2009 report by the Western Development Commission.

Some great examples of the creative hubs in Leitrim include award-winning organisation, Leitrim Design House in Carrick-on-Shannon. Recommended by the Craft Council of Ireland as one of the leading craft and design outlets in the country, this unique centre of excellence is housed in The Dock, a beautiful 19th century Courthouse building, located in the heart of Carrick-on-Shannon. Representing over 250 artists working in ceramics, glass, paper, wood, textiles, metal and jewellery, the Leitrim Design House offers its visitors the very best in design, contemporary craft and visual art.   The Dock itself is a multi purpose arts centre in Carrick on Shannon, with an extensive performing and visual arts programme and a vibrant community workshop programme.

Jeweller Erika Marks, who has a studio in Leitrim Design House, tells how working in the Western Region has helped her in this LookWest.ie case study “It is such a stimulating and peaceful natural environment that is conducive to creative work and thinking.”