Crafting Heritage at the Dublin Horse Show: Meet Award-Winning Makers
Visit the RDS Foundation Arts Stand (P16, Hall 3) at the Dublin Horse Show, 5-9 August 2026, and experience the remarkable skills of Ireland’s contemporary and heritage craft makers.
The Royal Dublin Society has championed the connection between Arts and Industry for generations, supporting talent and helping shape Ireland’s cultural landscape. Today, the RDS Arts Awards Programme continues that legacy by supporting emerging and established makers through awards, mentoring and professional development.
This year, visitors can meet and discover the work of two outstanding craft practitioners:
Lucy Cushley – The Irish Saddler
Winner of the 2020 RDS Craft Award
Based in County Down, Lucy Cushley is one of only a small number of professionally trained saddlers working across the island of Ireland. Her workshop produces bespoke saddlery, leatherwork and restoration projects while safeguarding traditional saddlery and harness-making skills.
Lucy has developed particular expertise in horse collar making, an endangered heritage craft. Through advanced training with master craftspeople, she is helping ensure these specialist equestrian skills are preserved for future generations.
Visitors will have a rare opportunity to learn about the materials, tools and techniques involved in traditional saddle, harness and horse collar making, and to gain insight into a craft that has changed little over centuries.
Vinh Truong
2025 RDS Craft Awards Emerging Maker
Dublin-based ceramicist and designer Vinh Truong combines traditional wheel-thrown ceramics with contemporary design practice. Trained in product design, his work demonstrates how traditional making skills continue to evolve through innovation and experimentation.
Following recognition as a 2025 RDS Craft Awards Emerging Maker, Vinh was commissioned by the RDS to create the 2026 RDS Cloud Cup, highlighting how support from the RDS Craft Awards helps makers develop sustainable creative careers and reach new audiences.
Through demonstrations, displays and conversations, visitors can discover the dedication, expertise and creativity behind contemporary Irish craft.
Presented by the RDS Foundation Arts Programme and RDS Craft Awards.
Booking Details
Included with Dublin Horse Show admission ticket.
No separate booking required to visit the RDS Foundation Arts Stand.
No separate booking required to visit the RDS Foundation Arts Stand.
Image Gallery - Click to enlarge
Event Address: RDS Foundation Arts Stand P16, Hall 3 Dublin Horse Show RDS, Dublin
Advanced Booking is Required https://www.dublinhorseshow.com/
Suitable For: All Ages
Accessibility Information
Located within the Dublin Horse Show exhibition halls. Wheelchair-accessible venue. Accessible toilet facilities available on-site. Please refer to Dublin Horse Show accessibility information for further details.
Organiser: : Royal Dublin Society (RDS)
Event Website: : https://www.dublinhorseshow.com/
Event Memberships
GANS
GANS Membership details
Royal Dublin Society (RDS)
All August Craft Month events are run independently by the event organisers. For questions regarding this event please contact the event organiser directly.