Organizer Information
The Cork County Council Arts Office is the primary cultural body responsible for the development and support of the arts within the Cork County administrative area in Ireland. The Council recognizes the arts as a vital component of community identity and economic health. Through various funding schemes, residencies, and strategic partnerships, the Arts Office works to create an environment where professional artists can thrive, innovate, and bring high-quality artistic experiences to the local and international public.
Title & Description
Artists Bursary Scheme 2026
The Artists Bursary Scheme is a strategic award designed to support the creative evolution of professional artists. The program provides essential financial assistance to help individuals develop new work, invest in professional development, or seize international opportunities. Whether an artist is seeking a period of research to initiate a new project, looking to attend specialized training, or planning to tour work to venues outside of Ireland, this bursary acts as a catalyst for career advancement and artistic innovation.
Categories
- Multi-disciplinary: The call is open to practicing artists across all artistic disciplines, including but not limited to:
- Visual Arts: Painting, Sculpture, Photography, Textile Art.
- Performance: Music, Theatre, Dance, Performance Art.
- Literature & Writing: Published and unpublished works.
- Interdisciplinary: Collaborative projects involving multiple mediums.
Eligibility
- Residency: Open exclusively to practicing artists currently living and working within the Cork County administrative area. (Note: Artists in Cork City are not eligible and should apply to Cork City Council).
- Career Stage: Practicing professional artists.
- Project Scope: Proposals must relate to the creation of new work, professional development (residencies/mentorship), or international touring.
- Exclusions: Does not cover academic fees for professional qualifications, capital purchases, or website development.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Financial Grant: A maximum award of €5,000 per applicant.
- Professional Growth: Funding covers costs for mentorship, specialized training, and residencies.
- International Mobility: Support for travel, subsistence, and freight costs for performing or exhibiting work outside of Ireland.
- Resource Support: Assists with the costs of materials, equipment hire, and documentation of new creative outputs.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Project Proposal (Max 750 words): A detailed description of the activity and the rationale for the award.
- Short Professional CV: A concise summary of artistic achievements and qualifications.
- Projected Costs: A full breakdown of expenditure (materials, travel, fees) and details of other income sources.
- Supporting Material: At least one documented example of recent work (images, audio, or video links).
- Letters of Support: Mandatory for those applying for residencies, international tours, or mentorship (including the mentor's CV).
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 9 January 2026
- Notification Date: February/March 2026 (following full Council approval).
- Project Timeline: Funded activities must be completed within 12 months of the grant award date.
Location
Cork County, Ireland
Additional Details
Applications are evaluated by an independent assessment panel based on artistic achievement, the viability of the proposal, and the potential for the award to advance the artist's career. Please note that Cork County Council is subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2014; any sensitive information should be clearly identified by the applicant during the submission process.