Longford Arts Award schemes now open to local artists and arts organisations

Artist Bursary, Arts Project, Mentorship and Residency Awards

Press Release: Friday, 6 November 2026 

County Longford Arts Service, is inviting applications from local artists and arts organisations for four separate funding schemes: the Arts Projects Award 2027, the Artist Bursary Awards 2027, Artist Mentorship Award and Artist Residency Awards. These schemes are funded by Longford County Council in partnership with the Arts Council of Ireland. 

The Arts Project Award aims to help local artists and arts organisations in the development of their artist practice by supporting planned projects. These projects may include ambitious art activities or event-based arts, as well as training and development work. The maximum grant available is €5,000. 

The Arts Bursary Awards helps local artists in the development of their artistic practice. It may be used for training, mentoring, research and building capacity. Applicants can come from any artistic background and work in any form. The maximum grant is €3,000.

The Artist Mentorship Awards is a new award that aims to support the professional development of emerging artists through mentorship with a more experienced artist. The maximum grant available is €1,000. 

The Residency Award is designed to support the development of professional artists who would benefit from dedicated time away in an appropriately resourced artist’s retreat. Four residency awards will be available for the Tyrone Guthrie Centre and Cow House Studios.

Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Gerry Hagan said, "The arts in County Longford continue to flourish, driven by fresh thinking and a commitment to innovation. This targeted funding is a timely and welcome support for artists and arts organisations working across our communities. I strongly encourage all eligible applicants to consider applying.”

Longford County Council Chief Executive Samantha Healy said, " Through the work of our Arts Service, we have witnessed a growing momentum in the promotion and development of the arts throughout County Longford. Longford County Council remains committed to supporting these efforts, which celebrate our county’s rich heritage and cultural identity. I look forward to the creative outcomes this funding will enable."

Longford artist and previous recipient of the Arts Bursary Award, Amanda Jane Graham said, “The Longford County Council’s Artist Bursary supports research into my areas of historical interest, as well as new media, processes, and surfaces, and gives me the time to test them. This ultimately generates new insights and pushes creative boundaries that would not be possible without this support.”

The closing date for all schemes is Friday, 11 December 2026. Late applications will not be considered. For further details, including how to apply and terms and conditions, visit www.longfordarts.ie