Why Creativity Matters More Than Ever (Especially Locally)

 

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about why this whole thing Makerland.ie matters. Why we’re doing it, why I care so much, and what’s actually at the heart of it all.

And for me, it comes down to this:
Creativity is more important now than ever. Especially the kind that happens locally in community halls, shared studios, kitchen tables, and makeshift workspaces tucked behind shops.

In a world that’s moving faster and feeling more digital by the day, I think we’re all craving something real. Something hands-on. Something that reminds us we’re not just here to scroll and consume but to make, to share, to connect.

There’s something kind of magical about sitting down to create something from scratch. You forget your phone for a bit. You focus. You use your hands. You learn something new. You get a little messy. And for a while, you’re just… there.

Fully present.

And that’s rare these days, isn’t it?

I know for me, the act of creating whether it's trying to remember how to knit as I'm teaching my own kids or just simply doodling/painting pulls me out of my head and back into my body. It feels good. Even if the end result is a bit rough around the edges (which, let’s be honest, it often is).

The more I’ve talked to makers and creatives across Ireland, the more I realise this isn’t just about the craft. It’s about the people behind it and the people who show up to learn.

Workshops are where strangers meet, laugh, make mistakes together, ask questions, and leave with something they made and a story to tell. They’re moments of real connection. Which feels kind of rare and beautiful right now.

And let’s not forget the hosts  the artists, the makers, the teachers  who pour their energy and heart into sharing what they know. They’re not just offering a service. They’re creating space. They’re holding it all together.

It can be easy to forget just how much love and labour goes into every workshop or handmade item. Behind each one is someone juggling their passion with marketing, pricing, admin, rent, and, often, a full-time job.

When you choose to support a local creative  to book a workshop, buy a handmade piece, or just show up  you’re helping someone keep going. You're telling them, “Hey, what you do matters.”

And that means the world.

Why Makerland? Why Now?

Honestly? Because I wanted a place where this kind of thing is easier to find.
Where someone like you (or me) can try something new without having to dig through 20 Instagram pages.
Where someone teaching a craft doesn’t have to do everything on their own.

Makerland.ie isn’t just about booking workshops  it’s about celebrating local creativity, making space for it, and making it easier for people to connect through it.

Because we need this stuff. Now more than ever.

Let’s Keep Creating

So here’s to the paint-stained aprons. The half-burnt candles. The pots that lean a little to the left. The people who teach. The people who try. And the lovely, messy, creative moments that bring us all together.

If you're a maker, I see you. If you're someone who wants to try something new, you're in the right place.

We’re just getting started and I’m so glad you’re here. 💛

Ali