Developing the arts

To further the development of the arts in Ireland, we lead and collaborate on a number of flagship programmes and research initiatives, enabling us to better understand and resource the arts sector.

Our work to develop the arts in Ireland is guided by our current 10-year strategy, Making Great Art Work, and its associated implementation plans.

LOVETRAIN2020, Emanuel Gat Dance Company at Dublin Dance Festival 2023. Photo: Julia Gat.

Flagship programmes

We lead and partner on a range of flagship programmes that enable us to advocate for the importance and value of the arts, promote their practice, and ensure that everyone in Ireland has the opportunity to engage with and participate in the arts.

Installation image of 'In Search of Hy-Brasil'. Showing piles of ecological materials sitting on the floor of a white gallery space.
In Search of Hy-Brasil at Architecture at the Edge Festival 2024, Printworks Gallery, Galway. Photo: Paolo Rizzi.

Artforms and arts practice areas

We develop and implement policies that respond to the specific needs and challenges of different artforms and arts practice areas. This enables us to develop targeted supports and resources, fostering sustained artistic excellence across a broad range of disciplines

two performers turned back to look at the viewer in a hallway with blue lights above them
Sruth na Teanga by Branar Téatar do Pháistí performed at Galway International Arts Festival. Photo: Colm Hogan.

Developmental policies

Our work is guided by a range of developmental policies. Policies are living, informed by best practice, and are shaped by consultation with stakeholders.

Developmental policies set out our core goals in the areas of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion; Paying the Artist; spatial priorities; and digital arts.

two actresses stand on stage with their fist raised to the sky in triumph. Behind them are various posters for womens rights and votes for women.
‘The Making of Mollie’ ag The Ark, Baile Átha Cliath. Grianghraf: Ros Kavanagh.

Resources and toolkits

We are building a suite of resources, training materials, and toolkits to empower those working in the arts sector with the knowledge and tools they need. These resources are designed to address the diverse needs of artists and arts organisations, providing guidance on best practice across a number of areas of work.

Still from Amanda. A person sits on the floor in a dimly lit room, gazing at a vibrant and abstract painting illuminated by colorful lights.
Still from Reel Art film ‘Amanda’ by José Miguel Jiménez González.

Research and reports

Our research work provides valuable insights and data that can inform future policies and strategies, allowing us to be effective and responsive to the needs of the arts community. We regularly share the findings of our research, as well as other reports about key areas of work.

‘First Light’ by Asylum Productions at Carlow Arts Festival 2024. Photo: Brian Cregan.

Sign up to our newsletter

Enter your email address to receive a monthly newsletter with updates on funding opportunities and news from the arts sector.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.