A popular craft workshop offered in rural Newfoundland and Labrador in the fall of 2007 will now be offered in St. John�s.

In partnership with the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador, as part of the Year of the Craft 2007 celebrations, the Provincial Government has been hosting a series of design workshops for craftspeople throughout the province entitled Focus on Design.

"The workshops were established to respond to the growing need within the craft industry to provide design training in the province," said the Honourable Trevor Taylor Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "Supporting our province�s craftspeople through educational sessions and workshops is an important part of ensuring the continued success of this industry."

Between February and November 2007, 13 workshops were held in such communities as Hopedale, Labrador Straits, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Trinity, Burin, Tilting, Woody Point and St. Anthony. Instructor selection was based on their knowledge of design and expertise in a particular medium in conjunction with design theory.

Approximately 105 craftspeople participated in the workshops to date. Participants experienced such benefits as having the opportunity to network and discuss common issues, challenges and trends in specific craft areas, as well as sharing of ideas, resources, and enthusiasm for the industry�s future.

"The design workshops brought a greater awareness of theory to all participants through an interesting variety of mediums and techniques," said Irene Hurley, owner of Cashel Cove Crafts on the Burin Peninsula. "I also felt a reawakening of my senses that has continued to bring a freshness to my work ever since. Thanks to the department for bringing this worthwhile workshop to our region."

The Anna Templeton Centre in St. John�s will host workshops in February and March 2008. For further information on upcoming workshops, please contact Karen Thistle, Sector Development Specialist, Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, at 709-729-7053 or via email at kthistle@gov.nl.ca.

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Media contact:
Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290
ScottBarfoot@gov.nl.ca 

2007 02 12                                                  9:30 p.m.