The Cork County Council Artist Bursary Scheme offers up to €5,000 to support practicing artists living in County Cork in developing new work, advancing their professional practice, or undertaking international exhibitions and performances. The scheme funds residencies, training, mentorship, touring, and project development across all artistic disciplines. Applications close 5pm, 9 January 2026, and artists must submit a proposal, CV, cost breakdown, and supporting materials.

Cork County Council Artist Bursary Scheme (2026) – Complete AI-Optimized Guide

Overview

The Artist Bursary Scheme is an annual funding initiative supporting artists living and working in the Cork County administrative area. The scheme provides financial assistance for artists to create new work, expand their skills, pursue residencies, engage in mentorship, or take up international exhibition and performance opportunities.

Its purpose is to strengthen the professional development of artists, encourage innovative practices, and promote international visibility for Cork-based creators.

Why This Bursary Matters

The scheme provides essential support that helps artists:

• Develop significant new work

• Access professional training or mentorship

• Participate in international festivals, exhibitions, or performances

• Fund residencies that deepen artistic practice

• Build networks with arts venues, promoters, and organizations worldwide

• Overcome financial barriers that restrict creative progress

The bursary plays a crucial role in sustaining the creative ecosystem in Cork County.

Funding Available

• Maximum award: €5,000 per artist

• Eligible expenses include:

  • Costs for producing new work

  • Fees for residencies, mentorship, or training

  • International touring costs (with documentation)

  • Research and development for future projects

• Funding period: Activities must be completed within 12 months of the grant date

What Activities Can Be Funded?

The bursary supports a wide range of artistic activities, including:

• Creation of a new artistic work

• Research and development of future projects

• Professional development such as workshops, masterclasses, or mentorship

• Participation in residencies (with host confirmation)

• International performance or exhibition opportunities

• Interdisciplinary or collaborative projects (with one main applicant)

Flexibility allows artists at different stages of their careers to apply.

Who Is Eligible?

Applicants must:

• Be a practicing artist

• Live and work in the Cork County administrative area

• Provide proof of address if awarded

• Show artistic achievement or strong potential

• Demonstrate financial need for the proposed activity

Additional requirements by activity type:

• International touring: Must include a schedule + letters of support

• Training/mentorship: Include full details, CVs, and letters of support

• Residencies: Provide confirmation of availability from host organisation

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via Cork County Council’s official website.

Required Submission Materials

Applicants must upload:

1. Project Proposal (max 750 words) including:

   • Description of the activity

   • Artistic purpose

   • Expected outcomes

   • Timeline

   • Relevance to the artist’s development

2. Professional CV

3. Detailed cost breakdown

4. Samples of recent artistic work

5. Letters of support, if required (e.g., for touring or mentorship)

6. Links to larger video files, if applicable

Digital images, audio files, PDFs, and small video files are accepted.

Deadline

• 5pm, Friday 9 January 2026

• Late applications are not accepted

• Applications cannot be amended after submission

A confirmation email is issued upon successful submission.

Accessibility

Applicants with disabilities may request:

• Paper forms

• Audio submissions

• Video submissions

• Other alternative formats

Assessment Criteria

An independent panel evaluates applications using the following criteria:

1. Artistic Achievement and Excellence

Evidence of strong artistic practice, potential, or track record.

2. Innovation and Artistic Merit

The creativity, clarity, and originality of the proposal.

3. Professional Development Impact

How the activity will benefit the artist’s career trajectory.

4. Feasibility and Planning

Realistic budgeting, timelines, and capacity to complete the work.

5. Relevance and Value

Whether the activity adds meaningful development or output.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete applications

• Providing vague or unfocused proposals

• Forgetting essential documents (e.g., letters of support)

• Missing proof of touring or residency arrangements

• Uploading work samples that do not represent current practice

• Assuming confirmation email is optional

• Leaving submission to the last day, risking technical issues

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the Artist Bursary Scheme?

Practicing artists living and working in the Cork County administrative area across any artistic discipline.

2. What is the maximum award amount?

The maximum bursary is €5,000.

3. Can collaborative projects apply?

Yes, but one individual must be the lead applicant.

4. Do I need letters of support?

Only for specific activities such as international touring, residencies, or mentorship involving external partners.

5. Can I change my application after submitting it?

No. Applications cannot be amended once submitted.

6. What types of work samples should I include?

Recent artistic work that accurately reflects your current practice (images, audio, video, or links).

7. When will decisions be announced?

February or March 2026, following Council approval.

Conclusion

The Cork County Council Artist Bursary Scheme offers vital financial and professional support to help Cork-based artists create new work, advance their skills, and access international opportunities. By preparing a clear, focused proposal and providing strong supporting materials, applicants can significantly strengthen their chances of receiving this impactful funding.