Louth County Council is inviting members of the county’s creative community to take part in an exciting European opportunity that combines sustainable craft practice with professional development.
The CUBE Craft Academy in Greece offers two programmes for emerging creatives: an in-person jewellery residency and an online EU funding development course.
The From Waste to Wearable residency will take place from 30 September to 2 October 2026 in Thessaloniki, offering participants a hands-on experience in transforming recycled and unconventional materials into contemporary jewellery.
Participants will explore the transformation of recycled, upcycled, and unconventional materials into contemporary wearable pieces, guided by expert mentors in a collaborative environment.
The programme places a strong emphasis on circular design, storytelling, and low-impact making techniques, encouraging participants to rethink how materials are sourced and used.
Alongside this, the Creative Futures online programme will support creatives in developing project ideas and understanding EU funding opportunities. It focuses on professional development, supporting creatives in transforming ideas into structured project concepts.
Participants will gain insights into EU funding opportunities, learn how to develop concept notes, and strengthen their skills in proposal writing and project planning. The programme is designed to empower creatives to engage more effectively with European funding programmes and collaborative projects.
Across both strands, participants will benefit from mentorship, peer learning, and international exchange, while building connections with creatives from across Europe. Those who complete the full programme will receive a Certificate of Achievement, recognising their participation and newly developed skills.
The call is open to emerging creatives, students, recent graduates, and individuals interested in sustainability and contemporary craft. No advanced technical experience is required; what matters most is a willingness to learn, experiment, and engage with new ideas. Financial support is available for participants attending the in-person residency, covering travel, accommodation, and subsistence.
Louth County Council is encouraging local creatives to apply, recognising the value of such initiatives in supporting the growth and international visibility of the county’s creative sector.
“This is an excellent opportunity for creatives in Louth to engage with sustainable practices while gaining hands-on experience and building connections across Europe,” David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council.
“We are delighted to be partnering once again with Carlow County Council to provide unique opportunities for those in the Craft industry. We encourage anyone with an interest in craft, design, or sustainability to apply to represent Louth on a European stage.”
Nikki Campbell, Head of Enterprise Louth County Council, also highlighted the significance of the initiative: “Programmes like the CUBE Craft Academy provide valuable pathways for creatives to develop both artistically and professionally.
“By combining sustainable making with skills in EU project development, participants are better equipped to access new opportunities and contribute to a more innovative and resilient creative sector”
The CUBE Craft Academy is a platform for sustainable creativity, international collaboration, and future-focused innovation in the European craft sector.
The initiative from Craftwork 4.0 All forms part of a wider European effort to support the cultural and creative sectors through sustainability, collaboration, and innovation. It provides participants with a unique opportunity to experiment with materials, develop their creative voice, and gain practical tools for building sustainable careers within the arts.
The deadline for applications for the in-person residency is 12 June 2026, and 31 July 2026 for the online programme. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through the official online application form.
Application form for expression of interest is available on the Craft Academy in Greece - Sustainable Making & Creative Opportunities | Carlow County Council's Online Consultation Portal.
For further information, contact Gráinne McKeown of LEO Louth on grainne.mckeown@louthcoco.ie
