112
OPERATION OF ARTS PROGRAMME Sligo Arts Service and Programme 2021 The Sligo Arts Plan 2020-2025 was adopted by Council in October 2020. One of the key priorities of the Plan is to support the artist which will be all the more important in 2021. The focus in 2020, as will be in 2021, was to ensure the ongoing viability of the arts sector. This will be achieved through an increased number of bursaries awarded to artists and grants to organisations.
Children and Young People County Sligo Youth Theatre will continue to deliver weekly workshops to young people in three age groups. A full programme of productions, including a drama on The Battle of the Books, is planned to ensure that all members experience performance in all aspects. Public health guidelines will be strictly adhered to. Additional workshop and performance space has been kindly provided by the Blue Raincoat Theatre Company. The Primary Colours visual arts programme for Primary schools has been adapted to be delivered by artists in a flexible manner, depending on the requirements of the participating schools. Print and online art materials developed by Sligo artists in 2020 will be distributed to schools.
Arts and Health and Older People Sligo Arts Service was successful in its application to the Healthy Ireland Fund to create a very special remote project for older people which will support them to combat isolation by connecting through storytelling, conversation and stimulating their imagination. The project will create a sense of shared experience and connection with others in their community and County.
Community Arts and Artists The Arts Service provides continual professional development to artists to work in the community and to adapt working practices due to the pandemic. The Arts Service Artists Panel was expanded in 2020 and represents a broad range of artistic practices and forms which the Service can call upon to deliver its programmes. There will be enhanced funding opportunities for artists in the areas of exhibitions, projects, awards, commissions and bursaries.
SLIGO COUNTY COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2020
