Exciting exhibition of unique furniture created by students in ATU

Open to the public until Friday 23 August 2024

An exciting exhibition of unique furniture pieces designed and created by students in the National Centre for Excellence in Furniture Design & Technology, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), was opened in the ATU Connemara campus on Tuesday 18 June 2024 by Dr Michael Hannon, VP Academic Affairs and Registrar, ATU Galway-Mayo.

Titled ‘Icons 24’, the exhibition showcases 56 stunning furniture pieces created by students on the BSc (Hon) in Furniture Design and Manufacture; BSc (Hons) in Furniture Making and Architectural Woodworking; BSc (Hons) in Education (Design, Graphics and Construction), Making and Technology; and Wood Manufacturing and Finishing apprentice programmes, delivered in ATU’s Connemara campus in Letterfrack.
The exhibition showcases tables, chairs, cabinets, lamps, shelving displays, children’s educational toys and more.

A number of design awards were presented to students for their outstanding designs and creations.
The Ellis Award for Excellence in Making 2024 was won by student Keith Roberts from Ballyconneely, Connemara, Co Galway for his finely made cabinet which incorporates steam bent components. Keith has just completed fourth year of the BSc (Hons) in Furniture Making and Architectural Woodworking and is representing Ireland at the WorldSkills finals in Lyon in France in the cabinetmaking competition this September having already won the IrelandSkills national final.

The Conor Farrell Award for Excellence in Design 2024 was won by Melissa Shiel, Roscam, Galway for her chair incorporating side table. Melissa has just completed second year on the BSc (Hon) in Furniture Design and Manufacture.

The Robin and Lucienne Day Award 2024, presented on behalf of Paula Day by Trustee Mary Mullin, was won by Pearse Summerville from Summerhill, Co Meath for his bench. Pearse has also completed second year of the BSc (Hon) in Furniture Design and Manufacture.

Paul Leamy, Head of Department, ATU Connemara, says: "Icons 24 exhibition showcases not only the exceptional talent and creativity of our students but also the dedication and hard work that has gone into every piece on display. This collection of outstanding work is a testament to the innovative spirit that we cultivate in our students. We are all incredibly proud of what our students have achieved and excited for the bright futures that lie ahead for each of them”.

The exhibition will remain open weekdays throughout the summer until 23 August 2024.