The artist in residence programme supports artists (from various disciplines) in their own professional development, to create new work, while ensuring greater access to the arts for more people across Kerry, as the artist’s work with individuals, fellow artists, community groups and schools, through mentoring, workshops and projects. The programme is co-funded by Kerry County Council and the Arts Council of Ireland.

Dancer in Residence – Catherine Young

Catherine will continue her Céilí Afro Dabke Ukraine dance classes in various locations across the county. There will be a six-week programme of dance classes in selected primary schools starting in November and the interactive dance show “Yard Duets” will take place in care homes in December.

Filmmaker in Residence – Jesse Gilbert

Jesse will focus on establishing long-term pathways and opportunities for young people keen to make films. This will involve countywide workshops with Transition Year groups that aim to give students an introduction to the craft of filmmaking. He will also work with the Killarney youth filmmaking group SONAR whose films have achieved national success at youth film festivals. 

Jesse will also be offering workshops and clinics to community groups and individuals interested in filmmaking.

Secondary schools with Transition Year groups, community groups and individuals interested in working with Jesse, can email jgilbertfilm@gmail.com

The Kerry Filmmaker in Residence is solely funded by Creative Ireland.

Visual Artist in Residence – Lisa Fingleton

Lisa is available to provide workshops to schools and community groups, and to meet with amateur and professional artists who are looking to develop their skills through one-to-one mentoring. If interested in working with Lisa email arts@kerrycoco.ie

Photo: Noel Sweeney

Writer in Residence – Emer Fallon

Emer has published an online anthology featuring a selection of pieces from the writers who responded to last year’s call out for submissions for the Writers on the Bus project. It is available to borrow from BorrowBox. Emer is continuing to work with Castleisland Day Care Centre, where she has been gathering the memories and stories of some of Kerry’s older residents.

Emer is available to provide workshops to schools and groups and to provide one-to-one mentoring to anyone setting out on their writing journey. If interested in working with Emer, email emerwriterinres@gmail.com

Photo: Manuela Dei Grandi