Winner: Seamus Ennis Arts Centre, Fingal

Summary

The Seamus Ennis Art Centre in the Naul, Co Dublin is the centre of a thriving community in a very creative place. It opened in 1992 in memory of master Uileann piper, folklore archivist and storyteller Seamus Ennis, who resided in the area until his death in 1982. Following refurbishment, the Centre expanded as a music school and location for Irish traditional music sessions. The remit of the centre now provides for a multi- disciplinary arts centre focusing on developing and maintaining cultural activities for rural Fingal. Traditional elements are complimented by activities aimed at the local community including music lessons, dance and instrument tuition workshops for children. The centre also runs monthly cinema screenings. Further additions include the Easter Snow Gallery and a new outdoor facility, ‘The Pipers Garden’ for quality outdoor events. The Centre remains unique in its role as a beacon of cultural excellence in this isolated rural location.

Group Contact: Sean Paul O’Hare [email protected]

Citation

“……..a place that has ably demonstrated that the arts have a pivotal role in community life with individual lives being enhanced by their commitment and also by their achievements in maintaining cultural activities……”