Deadline: 18-Jun-2026
The Visual Arts Bursary Award supports professional visual artists and independent curators in Ireland by providing time and financial support to research, reflect, and develop their artistic or curatorial practice.
The award supports activities such as artistic research, collaboration, training, residencies, workspace support, and the development of new or ongoing visual arts projects.
Programme Focus Areas
The bursary supports:
- Artistic and curatorial research
- Development of new visual arts work
- Professional practice development
- Collaboration and partnerships
- Residencies and training
- Workspace and creative development support
The programme is designed to strengthen contemporary visual arts practice in Ireland.
Award Strands
Strand 1: Emerging Artists
This strand supports early-career visual artists who:
- Have not previously received a Bursary Award
- Have not received a Next Generation Award
- Have not received a Markievicz Award
The strand supports:
- Practice development
- Completion of a body of work
- Return to artistic practice after a break
Funding available:
- €10,000 only
Strand 2: Visual Artists
This strand supports visual artists at:
- Emerging level
- Mid-career level
- Established career stage
Funding available:
- €15,000
- €20,000
Strand 3: Curators
This strand supports independent curators working on:
- Curatorial research
- Project planning
- Partnership development
- Collaboration with artists and institutions
Funding available:
- €10,000
- €15,000
- €20,000
Additional Support
Artists and curators with disabilities may request:
- Additional personal disability access costs
These are assessed separately from the main funding request.
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be professional visual artists or independent curators
- Be resident in the Republic of Ireland
- Actively pursue a professional arts career
- Demonstrate a track record in visual arts
- Be recognised by peers as practising professionals
Applicants outside Ireland may also be considered if they clearly demonstrate how the proposal benefits the arts in Ireland.
Who is Not Eligible?
The award is not open to:
- Organisations
- Full-time undergraduate students
- Applicants seeking postgraduate study funding
- Internship or volunteer project applications
- Aosdána members receiving a Cnuas
Assessment Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- Artistic quality
- Professional track record
- Feasibility of the proposal
- Artistic or curatorial development potential
- Alignment with award objectives
Tips for Applicants
Strong applications should:
- Present clear artistic or curatorial goals
- Demonstrate professional experience
- Include realistic timelines and activities
- Show the value of the proposed work
- Explain the impact on long-term practice
FAQ
Who can apply?
Professional visual artists and independent curators based in the Republic of Ireland.
What funding amounts are available?
Funding ranges from €10,000 to €20,000 depending on the strand.
Can emerging artists apply?
Yes. Strand 1 specifically supports emerging artists.
Are curators eligible?
Yes. Independent curators may apply under Strand 3.
Can disability support costs be included?
Yes. Additional disability access costs may be requested separately.
Conclusion
The Visual Arts Bursary Award 2026 provides valuable support for visual artists and curators in Ireland to strengthen their creative and professional practice. Through funding for research, collaboration, and artistic development, the programme helps support the growth of contemporary visual arts across Ireland.
For more information, visit The Arts Council.