The 2009 Award Ceremony

The 2009 Golden Fleece Award Ceremony took place on the premises of the Royal Hibernian Academy on March 10th 2009. Roisin de Buitlear, Chairperson of the Golden Fleece Artistic Advisory Panel, introduced the shortlisted candidates and the prizes were presented by the President of the RHA, Steven McKenna. And Lillias Mitchell's niece Margaret added an extra dimension to the celebrations by presenting the Trust with the original Golden Fleece sign that Lillias had hung outside her door when she set up her weaving studio in Dublin in the 1940s. We are pleased to be able to show you some of the highlights of this happy occasion, and to introduce you to our award winning and shortlisted artists for 2009.

RHA President Steven McKenna presents Stevan Hartung, craftsman in wood, with the Golden Fleece Award for 2009



Lillias's niece Margaret Mitchell speaking about her aunt's early days in her Golden Fleece weaving workshop



Magaret presents Lillias's original studio shingle to Stephen Hamilton, Golden Fleece Award trustee



Six of Lillias's nieces and great-nieces were there to join in the celebrations. Here (from left to right) are Margaret Mitchelll, Lisa Molina, Geraldine Mitchell and Lucie Campos



Roisin de Buitlear, Chair of the Artistic Advisory panel, presenting the work of the artists shortlisted for the award.


Wood craftsman Garvan de Bruir (left), Merit Prize winner, with Golden Fleece Award winner Stevan Hartung


Glass artist Mary Mackey, Merit Prize winner, chats with a friend


Mick Minogue, worker in textile / tactile products and Merit Prize winner


Batik artist Trini Kenny was shortlisted for the Award


Weaver Kathy Mooney (centre), shortlisted for the Award, enjoys a drink at the party with her supporters


Painter Ann Quinn, shortlisted for the Award