Emerging artists to shine

Geraldine Fitzgerald

Groundbreaking arts projects which allow Cork artists to breakthrough in the wake of Covid-19 restrictions are to go ahead after securing the support of an anonyous donor through the Community Foundation for Ireland.

Three local groups have secured support from its Cork Arts Fund which was established after a donor came forward with €200,000 to support projects aimed at giving artists determined to overcome disadvantage an opportunity to highlight their talents.

Announcing the successful projects, The Community Foundation has paid tribute to the passionate, vibrant artistic community undeterred by the huge challenges of the past 18 months.

Each has been selected on the basis that it will address or give voice to social disadvantage or injustice, at-risk or marginalised artists, with a strong community component. The three projects are: The Rising Sparks Programme by Benchspace in the Marina Commercial Park which will engage artists who work with wood, textiles, jewellery, or metal. Five will be offered year-long support to discover and nurture their talents before a showcase at a special Rising Sparks Exhibition.

The Cork Arts Theatre on Carroll’s Quay is establishing a new Creative Empowerment Award Programme.

Theatre companies and artists are invited to develop new stage works.

They will be diverse, forward thinking, and adventurous; supported by the theatre’s artistic director, technical director and other production expertise. Audiences can look forward to ten new premiers at the theatre.

Sample-Studios in Churchfield will provide residencies for at-risk and marginalised artists. In a first of its kind project for Cork, a framework has been developed for holistic, practice-based learning, experimentation, and collaboration as a means of cultivating personal development and cross-cultural understandings. There will also be a focus on building sustainable community alliances and social solidarity.

Announcing the projects, Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of The Community Foundation for Ireland said: “Our anonymous donor wanted Cork’s artistic community to push boundaries, be bold and be brave in giving voice to those who are disadvantaged, excluded or isolated. The response has been overwhelming.”

She added: “We are delighted to turn our donors’ vision into reality. Philanthropy has an important role in supporting the arts, never been more important than now when our theatres, studios and galleries are looking forward to welcoming audiences back.

“We can look forward with a sense of excitement and anticipation. This is going to be an energetic period for the arts in Cork.”