Sara Donaldson

Sara Donaldson is a Senior Lecturer in Design History and Theory at Griffith College Dublin and Principal Lecturer in History of Art, Design & Fashion at the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV). She is currently a PhD researcher at Belfast School of Art, Ulster University, focusing on wool cloth finishing in Ireland. Her career spans 25 years in academic lecturing, curatorial work at the National Gallery of Ireland, and contributions to art/design education.

• Education
  • BA Hons in History of Art and Archaeology (University College Dublin, 1996)
  • MLitt (with Distinction) in History of Art (University College Dublin, 1997)
  • MA in History of Design and the Applied Arts (National College of Art and Design, 2005)
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education and Training (Griffith College Dublin, 2013)

Her research bridges art history, textile studies, and fashion theory. She specializes in uncovering overlooked industrial practices like wool cloth finishing through case studies such as C.H. Bates & Co. of Kilmainham Mills. Her work intersects with decorative arts, applied arts, and modern history.

Scientific awards include the Northern Bridge Consortium Scholarship (2023). She has presented at major events like the Gabrielle Chanel: Fashion Manifesto conference and Ulster University PhD Festival (2024), while maintaining roles as an external researcher for the National Gallery of Ireland.

• Lecturing Experience
  • Griffith College Dublin (2007–)
  • Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV) (2007–)
  • University College Dublin (UCD)
  • National College of Art and Design (NCAD)
  • Technological University Dublin (TUD) (2007–2021)
  • Limerick School of Art and Design