THE National College of Art and Design celebrated its 250th anniversary in crystalline fashion last Wednesday, when designer John Rocha, accompanied by his wife Odette, opened the college's craft and textiles exhibition at the RDS Concourse in Ballsbridge. The centrepiece of NCAD's latest exhibition is a selection of Waterford Crystal pieces depicting the evolution of Irish glass making from the 18th century to the present day, but even these shining items were overshadowed by the dazzling announcement that John Rocha is to design his own signature collection for Waterford Crystal.
John revealed to the assembled guests that he has spent the past nine months working on the designs for the exclusive pieces, and that Waterford Crystal expect to launch the range next spring. The opening was attended by a glittering array from the world of art and design including Patricia Jorgensen, NCAD's head of education Prof Iseult McCarthy, NCAD's head of fashion Frances McDonagh and her daughter Venetia, and John Foley, marketing director of Waterford Crystal.
