Cork County Hall to Host Inaugural Community Arts Networking Day

Over 200 artists, community leaders, and educators will gather at Cork County Hall next Wednesday for a groundbreaking event designed to strengthen creative connections across the city and county.

The Community Arts Networking Day, taking place on 22 October, represents the first joint initiative of its kind from Cork County Council and Cork City Council Arts Offices. The event aims to foster collaboration and explore new approaches to socially engaged arts practice throughout the region.

Cork County Hall will serve as the venue for this ambitious gathering, where participants from diverse backgrounds will share insights, forge partnerships, and discover practical resources for launching collaborative creative projects. The day promises a blend of inspiration and practical guidance for anyone invested in the power of community arts.

Lord Mayor of Cork City, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, said:

"The Community Arts Networking Day marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to fostering inclusive, creative engagement across Cork city and county. By bringing together artists, educators, and community leaders, we are investing in the cultural fabric of our locality: strengthening connections, inspiring collaboration, and ensuring that the transformative power of the arts reaches every corner of our communities."

The programme includes a keynote address on best practices in socially engaged art, alongside case studies from local and national practitioners. Facilitated networking zones will provide structured opportunities for attendees to form new partnerships and exchange ideas.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, commented:

"Supporting the arts contributes to building community, and this Community Arts Networking Day will show how discussions between artists can act as a catalyst for enriching local communities across Cork city and county. We hope this day will inspire those attending to work together on future collaborative arts projects throughout the county."

Organisers have prioritised accessibility by including a dedicated play space for children, enabling caregivers to participate fully with their families. A provided lunch will offer informal opportunities for connection and conversation beyond the structured sessions.

The event draws on established frameworks including the Social Practice Toolkit developed by Cork City and Leitrim County Council Arts Offices, as well as Cork County Council's Community of Practice programme. Both initiatives support meaningful and sustainable collaboration between artists and communities.

Those interested in attending can register at bit.ly/3J5bX7c. Further information is available at corkcoco.ie or by contacting arts@corkcoco.ie.