There was welcome news for Kerry on the Arts front this week when four recipients from the county were selected and are set to benefit from a combined €263,000 in funding as part of a major new investment by the Arts Council in Ireland’s arts sector.
The Arts Council has announced 220 recipients of its Arts Grant Funding scheme, representing a total investment of €17.2 million in organisations and individuals across the country on behalf of the State.
The Cill Rialaig Project Ltd has been awarded €35,000 under the Artists Support category. The funding will support the organisation’s work in providing opportunities and support for artists.
Fanzini Productions Ltd has received €58,000 towards its work in street arts. The funding will contribute to the delivery of artistic activity and performances that bring the arts into public spaces and communities.
Listowel Writers’ Week has also been awarded €50,000 for Literature (English language). The funding will support the organisation’s literary activity and contribute to the development and promotion of literature and opportunities for writers and audiences.
The largest award among the Kerry recipients goes to dance artist Catherine Young, who has been awarded €120,000. The funding will support her work in dance and the development and delivery of artistic activity over the funding period.
Together, the four Kerry awards represent a significant investment in the county’s arts sector, supporting activity across visual and creative practice, street arts, literature and dance.
The primary purpose of the Arts Grant Funding is to support organisations and individuals to carry out multiple activities over a fixed period.
In doing so, it builds and reinforces the national network of support for artists and audiences, complementing other Arts Council funding schemes that are open to either organisations or artists.
The awards announcement was welcomed by the recipients who recognise the support arts activities for the public to engage with and artist supports. They also recognise this as part of the Arts Council’s ongoing work to cultivate a thriving and sustainable arts sector in Ireland.
The funding will support the delivery of artistic activity across various artforms throughout 2027.
Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport Patrick O’Donovan extended his congratulations to the 220 recipients of this year’s Arts Grant Funding.
“This significant investment in artists and arts audiences demonstrates the State’s continuing commitment to supporting and uplifting Ireland’s robust creative culture. It ensures the ongoing development of the arts in communities and localities across the country,” Minister O’Donovan said.
Chair of the Arts Council Maura McGrath said the scheme plays an important role in supporting artistic activity nationwide.
“The reach of the Arts Council extends nationwide. As one of the Arts Council’s key funding schemes, Arts Grant Funding supports the activities of artists and organisations across the country,” she said.
“It contributes to a vibrant artistic ecosystem, ensuring artist development and supporting places for showing and creating art, while connecting communities, schools, arts centres and local authorities. We are proud to support this year’s recipients and look forward to the impact of their work.”