Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, today, Thursday 21 July will open the Boyle Arts Festival in King House, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Boyle Arts Festival is a non profit making organisation which, for the last 22 years, has been run by a voluntary committee during the last two weeks of July. They are committed to bringing artists, musicians and performers of local, national and international reputation to Boyle and the 10 day festival this year includes exhibitions, concerts, drama, literature, lectures, family events and workshops.
Commenting on the festival, Minister Deenihan said "It is testament to the skill and dedication of the voluntary committee that the Boyle Arts Festival has been such a successful event for the past 22 years, winning several national awards over the years and always welcoming new and innovative contributions. This festival has developed and grown over the years thanks to the imagination and vision of its founders but also due to its loyal and growing audience."
The cornerstone of the Festival has always been the Main Art Exhibition, curated for the past 21 years by the late chairman Fergus Ahern. This year’s festival is dedicated to his memory. The prestigious Boyle Civic Collection is also proudly displayed. The collection comprises of paintings and sculptures by the very best contemporary Irish artists. The acquisition of works commenced in 1990 and the ever expanding collection is now in excess of 150 paintings and sculptures.
Minister Deenihan continued "Like so many of the terrific festivals up and down the country, the Boyle Arts Festival is a non profit making organisation run by a voluntary committee. This committee is dedicated to bringing to our attention artists, musicians and performers of local, national and international repute. Once again, visitors will be spoilt for choice with exhibitions, concerts, drama, literature, lectures, family events and workshops during the 10 day festival.
The Government appreciates the importance of the arts, culture and creative industries to Irish society and to our economy. We are conscious not only of the role of the sector in providing vital opportunities for self-expression and participation, but also of the economic potential of the arts and creative industries. We are determined to do our best to provide the conditions in which creative expression can flourish and we are committed to enhancing access to the arts for people of all ages and income levels."
In conclusion, Minister Deenihan stated "festival gives the town an opportunity to showcase the best of Irish and international talent, as well as fostering a strong community spirit. The committee have always endeavoured to make art as accessible as possible to all people and this is reflected in ticket pricing and an extensive range of cultural events."