Creative spaces for local artists on the horizon for Kilkenny

Minister for the Arts Catherine Martin has announced details of a new pilot scheme of €6 million for county councils across the country which could see local artists and creatives spaces developed in Kilkenny.

Kilkenny County Council can avail of funding of €150,000 that they can combine with matched funding to create spaces for artists to create. This follows a successful pilot programme that was developed and funded through Dublin City Council and is now being rolled out all over the country.

Newly elected Green Party representative, Cllr Maria Dollard has welcomed the news stating; "The Green Party in government have been especially focused on the importance of the arts and artists to our communities and society as a whole and have been instrumental in seeing support for artists increase since entering government.

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"Artists often struggle to find studios and performance spaces. For example, Barnstorm Theatre have been actively seeking performance space for some time and this funding is very welcome for Kilkenny and our Arts Office who do trojan work in supporting local artists. Local authorities are well placed to support artists and Kilkenny has been especially good. This fund can also help bring vibrancy to town centres, tackle dereliction and engage the night time economy," she said.

"I look forward to engaging with artists and creatives and supporting Kilkenny County Council Arts Office over the next five years," Cllr Dollard added.