Mr. Simon Harris, TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) today (18 October) opened the Ceramics Ireland Annual Exhibition at the Pearse Museum, St. Enda's Park, Rathfarnham. This exhibition will run until November 29th and features the work of almost 30 ceramics makers and includes many aspects of ceramic practice.

Speaking at the opening Minister Harris said: "It gives me great pleasure to welcome Ceramics Ireland to Pearse Museum for the second year running. My Office has developed a strong and productive partnership with Ceramics Ireland and has exhibited their work in several OPW sites. The Pearse family come from a craft background themselves and this wonderful museum here at St. Enda's Park, is the perfect setting to showcase the works of the makers from all over Ireland. My Office is delighted to play host to such a fine exhibition."

The Minister concluded: "I would like to congratulate everyone involved in bringing the exhibition to this historic museum. It offers everyone an unprecedented opportunity to view the best of Irish ceramic practice."

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For further information or if you wish to interview Minister Harris please contact Colette Davis, OPW Press Officer at 01 647 6128, 087 947 5552 or colette.davis@opw.ie

Notes for Editors:

Ceramics Ireland is a voluntary organisation that promotes ceramics both in Ireland and abroad. Membership comprises of artists, crafts people, students, collectors and friends. Ceramics Ireland is a growing resource organisation that facilitates it's members artistic and business ventures through exhibitions, skills development and communications.Further information available at www.ceramicsireland.org

Pearse Museum is located in Rathfarnham, Co. Dublin in the former home and school of Patrick Pearse, the leader of the 1916 Rising. Originally built in the 18th century, the museum building is surrounded by fifty acres of beautiful parkland. Senator Margaret Pearse bequeathed the house and its contents to the state in 1968 to be used as a memorial to both her brothers. The museum opened in 1979. Guided tours are available on request. Further information available at www.heritageireland.ie/en/pearsemuseum