National recognition for Cavan arts projects

Creative Cavan projects were to the fore at the Creative Ireland Shared Island conference in Croke Park last Thursday (November 13).

The event, Creativity Connecting People, celebrated the achievements of 47 Shared Island projects that have fostered partnerships, creativity, and lasting friendships across the island since 2023.

It was attended by more than 300 delegates and the Creative Cavan Projects exhibiting the cross-border ‘Art of Life’ and ‘Dance Connects’ projects.

Hosted by journalist and broadcaster Dearbhail McDonald, the conference included a range of panels which included Creative Cavan Engagement Officer Sharon Howe presenting on the acclaimed ‘Art of Life’ project.

Speaking at the event, Arts Minister Patrick O’Donovan singled out the Art of Life ‘Pen the Pain’ poetry collection for praise.

The collection, which was created as part of the Art of Life by Helen Keenan and features poems by Helen and members of Cavan Older People’s Council, Brian McDermot, Anne O’Donohue, and Bob Gilbert, will be launched in Virginia Library on Wednesday December 3 at 10.30am.

Led by Creative Cavan, the Art of Life project aims to normalise conversations around death, dying and end of life in order to promote the importance of planning for end of life.

Meanwhile Taoiseach Micheál Martin said The Shared Island initiative is about "building connections between people, communities and traditions across our island."

“Through shared creativity, we can see a more expansive common ground of understanding and cultural appreciation emerge; in music, in art, in storytelling, and in the bonds that grow from these collaborations.

"The Creative Ireland Programme has shown how imagination and shared purpose can help us shape a brighter, more connected future for everyone who calls this island home,” continued Mr Martin.

With a copy of ‘Pen the Pain’ in hand, Minister Patrick O’Donovan added, “I was struck by the footprint of Creative Ireland’s Shared Island projects seen here today; there are 47 projects based in 23 counties throughout the island, with each province represented. The strength of the Shared Island initiative lies in its focus on community-to-community connection, inspiring pride, passion and lifelong friendships”.

For more information visit: www.cavanlibrary.ie/artoflife