Third level students display unity through creativity in Waterford
Attending were Michael and Ruth Kelly, Ned and Róisín O'Donovan and Brendan Condon. Photo: John Power
An intriguing new exhibition or art was opened recently by the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, in Central Library.
The 'Together -PA3OM', art, craft and design exhibition, features the work of Waterford VTOS, second year art, craft and design students and is an initiative that is held every year.
The exhibition in the library is held as part of their work experience and this year the Irish and Ukrainian students named the exhibition, 'Together -PA3OM', to celebrate their friendship as well as showcasing their design and craft work over two years.
The exhibition is a wonderful opportunity for family, friends and the public to view works in areas such as painting, ceramics, fused and stained glass, jewellery, and combined materials.
Traditional craft work also features but the exhibition also explores innovative craft and design techniques. Design work shows the marrying of laser cut wood designs with copper metal to create unique and beautiful earrings which are easy to wear and wall art with a difference.
Ceramics and paintings also featured strongly in the exhibition this year.
The exhibition also taught the skills of event management to the students as the learned how to organise and hold a professional standard exhibition as a team.
The annual Art, Design and Craft exhibition, which first commenced in 2007, is an example of the WWETB collaboration with Waterford City and County Council, making art and design accessible to all.
Both Cllr. Murphy and the WWETB FET Director, Lindsay Malone, both spoke at the event and commended the work of the students and their teachers and the high standard of the exhibition.
Waterford VTOS, Durands Court is celebrating over 30 years providing accredited education and training programmes to Waterford City and its hinterland. QQI Level 5 accredited courses are offered in a range of subjects including: Information Technology and Business Administration; Fashion Design & Sewing Skills; Interior Design and Art, Craft & Design.
For this year a new programme, Graphic Design, will also be offered. Graduates have progressed on to employment, further education and training or set up their own businesses. Contact Helena Finlay on 051 852803 or email vtosdurandscourt@wwetb.ie for more information on our courses for 2025/2026.
