And for the more discerning...

Those with an eye for the finer things in life may be interested in the one-year diploma course in fine and decorative arts run by the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers. The course is designed to give students a good knowledge of the complete fine arts spectrum from silver and ceramics to furniture, art, glass and architecture. The course is open to fine art enthusiasts of all ages and begins in October. For more information contact Liam O'Donnell at the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers, 129 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2 or telephone (01) 678 5685.