The 16 X 16: Next Generation bursaries are awarded to innovative young artists, in a special initiative of the Arts Council and the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme, in recognition of the role of artists in the events of 1916.
Artists, working across visual arts, music, literature, film, dance, theatre and circus, have been awarded 16 bursaries to support their practice and their ambition as rising stars of the contemporary arts in Ireland. Each artist will receive an award of €12,500 and is invited to participate in a collective week-long residency in the Tyrone Guthrie Centre, Annamakerrig from 3rd to 10th April 2016.
At a special event in Áras an Uachtarain today (Wednesday 16th December, 2015), eighteen young recipients of the Next Generation artist bursaries met with President Michael D. Higgins to share their ideas and plans for next year. President Michael D. Higgins highlighted the role that artists have played, and continue to play, in the crafting of Irish society. The President spoke of the centrality of creativity and culture to the concept of democracy and to people's right to participate fully in society.
Referencing the centenary of the 1916 Rising, the President highlighted that writers, poets, musicians, artists and performers have reflected the history of the republic and continue to play a significant role in interpreting and contextualising the events and stories which make up Irish history.
The bursary is specifically designed to support professional artists from across Ireland, who are at an early stage in their career, and whose practice is innovative, ambitious and original.
Minster for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Heather Humphreys added: “2016 will be a very special year for Irish people when we reflect on the events of 1916 and the impact that this moment had on the development of our nation state. Artists were at the core of that significant moment in Ireland’s history and I am particularly pleased that Irish artists, and in particular, our young artists, will take centre stage in our centenary programme next year. I am really excited by the range and diversity of young artists who have been awarded these very special bursaries and I wish them a most rewarding and exciting year ahead as they embark upon the next stage of their artistic journeys.”
Orlaith McBride, Director of the Arts Council said: “We are delighted to be here celebrating with these wonderful artists. These awards offer artists valuable time to cultivate their artistic voice, develop their practice and pursue their vision. I look forward to seeing the work of the Next Generation.”