Cork schools to be invited to look after council's art collection 

Four primary schools are to be invited to become the temporary custodians of artworks from Cork County Council’s art collection in a new scheme being described as a “creative learning experience” which will be led by a professional artist.

The local authority is inviting schools from across the county to apply for ‘Frameworks’ a unique classroom-based education programme that offers students the chance to engage with the Cork County art collection.

Pupils from the selected schools will have the opportunity to interact with original works of art, explore diverse artistic media and co-create new works in response.

Speaking about the initiative, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll said the project was about widening access to the local authority’s art collection and stressed that it was something to be enjoyed by all the county’s inhabitants.

“This collection is owned by the people of Cork, and Cork County Council, wants to ensure it as widely accessible as possible,” said the councillor.

“Through the programme, we aim to engage young people in a meaningful, creative experience with art in their own classrooms, encouraging both learning and imagination.”

Cork County Council’s visual art collection features pieces across painting, drawing, print, photography, video, and small-scale sculpture by both emerging and established artists—many of whom are based in Cork.

Through ‘Frameworks’ pupils will be introduced to these artworks and by taking part in guided workshops, will respond by creating a collaborative piece with the artist-in-residence.

Funded by Creative Ireland, the ‘Frameworks’ programme will be delivered free of charge to participating schools.

Applications are now open, and schools interested in taking part are encouraged to contact creative.Ireland@corkcoco.ie before the closing date for applications which is 3pm on Thursday, May 30.

Creative Ireland is described as an ‘all of government’ culture and wellbeing programme with the ambition to inspire and transform people, places and communities through creativity.