The Arts Council has cited a recently published Indecon economic report saying that the arts are now more important than ever for Ireland in terms of the employment and revenue generated by the sector and the positive impact which Irish artists are having on our reputation abroad.
The announcement came as the Arts Council today called upon people in the Cork area to visit the Into the Light exhibitions which will celebrate the inspiring work of Irish artists and 60 years of support for the sector. The Into the Light exhibitions are being launched nationwide from the end of this month.
The Indecon report cited shows that the arts provide significant direct and indirect employment in Ireland, with the Arts Council’s annual funding supporting some 2,270 jobs. The wider arts sector supports 20,755 jobs and contributes €336m in taxes.
This research comes as the Arts Council prepares for the national launch of Into the Light: The Arts Council – 60 Years of Supporting the Arts which is a partnership between the Arts Council and a range of regional venues. Each venue has been given creative freedom to choose their own works from the Arts Council collection, giving each exhibition a unique theme and feel.
The exhibitions will include over 150 works and many have been recalled from loan locations across the country and will be on display at the following locations:
Dublin City Gallery, The Hugh Lane from November 28th Limerick City Gallery of Art from November 30th Crawford Art Gallery, Cork from December 4th The Model, Sligo from December 7th
Speaking today, Ms Pat Moylan, Chairman of the Arts Council, said:
“As we prepare to celebrate our 60th Anniversary, it is interesting to look back and see how the arts have been cultivated and developed over the years since the Council first met in 1952. This Indecon report shows that the arts are now a major employer and contributor to economic output and that with smart investment the arts are capable of stimulating job creation and economic activity at a time we need it most.”
“The arts really matter to us in Ireland, they unite our communities in good times and in bad, and they help define us as a people. Our achievements in the arts give us a deep credibility when we tell the world of our flexible, creative, innovative work force and the Arts Council is proud of the role the arts play in attracting inward investment.”
“When the Arts Council considered how it might mark its 60th anniversary, it was agreed that core, long-term ambitions should be reflected. Primary amongst these have been the support of artists in the production of their work and opportunities for the public to see and experience art. Consequently, a major event showcasing the Arts Council’s Collection seemed appropriate. I hope that the people of Cork will make every effort to come and enjoy the great works which will be displayed in the various venues over the course of Into the Light,” added Ms Moylan.