University of Ulster, York Street, Belfast, Wednesday, June 1-Sunday, June 12

This is the only festival of its kind in Ireland and promises two weeks packed with talks, workshops, exhibitions and performances from local and international talent. It will cover the broad spectrum of the art and design world with everything from painting and fashion to the latest in gaming technology.

The festival now hosts one of my favourite events — the End of Year Shows — which offers a wonderful opportunity to see what all our up-and-coming young talent can produce. It is also a great time to purchase pieces of work from young artists who, as yet, are unknown. Another absolute must is the Ulster Fashion Show on Wednesday, June 1, an extravaganza which showcases some really exciting ‘off-the-wall’ designs by some of the fashion design stars of the future.

Talking of stars of the world of textiles, Karen Nicol, world-renowned embroidery and mixed media textile artist (whose clients include Chanel, Givenchy and Marc Jacobs), will be giving a presentation on Tuesday, June 7, and holding a workshop the following day.

This really promises to be a tremendous fortnight of all that is great in the art world and booking for many of the events will be essential.

Try to get your hands on the very funky (but difficult to understand) programme to find out exactly what’s on. For further information, visit www.ulsterfestival.com, or tel: 028 9026 7285. Tickets can be obtained from Belfast Visitor and Convention Bureau,47 Donegall Place, Belfast.