Applications Open for the Connecting Artists 2025 Programme

Supporting Neurodivergent Artists and Artists with Intellectual Disabilities Nationwide

Connections Arts Centre, a social enterprise supporting the disability community in Ireland, has announced the open call for its Connecting Artists 2025 Programme, inviting applications from adult artists in Cavan and across Ireland who identify as neurodivergent or are living with an intellectual disability.

This national programme is designed to support artists who face barriers in accessing traditional art education and resources, helping them advance their creative practice, exhibit, and sell their work.

The Connecting Artists Programme selects ten artists from across the island of Ireland each year to participate in a transformative 10-week online course.

The programme provides a nurturing, professional, and inclusive environment, culminating in a prestigious exhibition at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI).

Cavan has seen a past participant in the programme, Thomas Higgins from Drumalee Cross who took part in the 2023 programme.

Participants will receive mentorship, attend online workshops, engage in demonstrations, and collaborate in peer discussions—all tailored to boost their artistic skills and professional confidence. The programme is focused on artists working in 2D mediums such as painting, drawing, and collage.

Miriam Spollen, founder of Connections Arts Centre and creator of the programme, says, “Our mission through the Connecting Artists Programme is to support adult artists who face challenges in accessing formal and informal art education. Since its inception three years ago, the programme has supported 30 artists with paid opportunities, including workshops, talks, and sales of their artwork. Individual art sales have reached a value of €14,130 a testament to the programme’s impact and reach.”

How to Apply

Interested artists are encouraged to visit www.connectionsartscentre.ie to review the application guidelines and eligibility criteria. The programme is open to artists from both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Key Dates

Application Deadline: Friday, 31st January 2025

Programme Start Date: March 2025 (exact date TBD)

For more information, visit connectionsartscentre.ie or follow @connectionsartscentre on Instagram, LinkedIn, and X for updates. #ConnectingArtists2025