Gaeltacht Designers Bring Innovation and Craftsmanship to Showcase 2026

Údarás na Gaeltachta clients took centre stage at Showcase 2026, Ireland’s leading design and craft trade show, which concluded successfully at the RDS in Dublin last week.

The three-day event attracted over 3,350 visitors, providing a vital platform for hundreds of Irish designers to present their products to both domestic and international buyers. The strong attendance figures underscore the continued growth and international appeal of Irish design and craftsmanship.

Among the standout participants were several Údarás na Gaeltachta-supported enterprises from the west of Ireland. Maigh Cuilinn-based Emily Jean Atelier captured attention when her accessory design featured in the event’s highly anticipated launch event fashion show, one of the showcase’s most prestigious platforms for emerging talent.

Emily Jean remarked “Údarás na Gaeltachta’s support made it possible for us to showcase our work on this incredible platform. Showcase 2026 has opened doors we couldn’t have accessed otherwise and we’re grateful for their continued investment in Gaeltacht-based entrepreneurs.”

The quality of Gaeltacht-based design was further highlighted in the jewellery awards, where RusTech Wood from east Galway earned a place on the shortlist with their innovative ‘Elm Watch’, demonstrating the region’s commitment to sustainable design and local sourcing.

First-time exhibitors make strong impression

Making their debut at Showcase 2026 were newly founded brand Solace Skin Care, who attracted significant interest with their organic, handmade tallow balm products. Ireland Exclusive, showcased their luxury product range, featuring room sprays, handcrafted hoods, and sweater vests, positioned alongside, Donegal-based brand Sarah Lorraine Ireland, whose clothing collections spanned from locally sourced materials to Italian imports. Also exhibiting for the first time was Cumasú participant Joyce Country Wool, whose traditional approach to crafting wool garments captivated international buyers. Visitors gathered in numbers to hear founder Carina share the remarkable story behind her designs, tracing each garment’s journey from the sheep’s back to finished chunky knit jumpers. The diversity of Gaeltacht enterprise was evident throughout the exhibition floor.

“The success of our clients at this year’s Showcase reflects the exceptional talent and innovation thriving in Gaeltacht regions,” said Ultan Ó Fátharta at Údarás na Gaeltachta. “Events like Showcase provide crucial market access for our clients, helping them connect with buyers and expand their reach both nationally and internationally.”

Established brands continue to excel

Seasoned Showcase participants also demonstrated their enduring appeal to buyers. Údarás na Gaeltachta client John Collins Designs, returned with their distinctive pieces, inspired by the rugged Donegal coastline, an exemplar the quality of Gaeltacht-based design. Criostal na Rinne from the Waterford Gaeltacht also created significant impact with their minimalistic exhibition stand. The Waterford-based glassmakers presented their work through four pillars representing innately Irish elements – ‘Cló, Tonn, Móin agus Ceo’ (Stone, Wave, Bog, and Mist) – with bespoke glassware created to embody each element.

Showcase 2026 continues to serve as a vital stepping stone for Irish designers seeking to establish themselves in competitive global markets, with Gaeltacht enterprises proving they can compete at the highest levels of design and craftsmanship.