Droichead aims to produce a cogent, compelling programme of work that supports artists and nurtures audiences. This is at the heart of who we are and what we do. It is why we exist. To put the arts at the heart of peoples’ lives we need to ensure two things. We need to take care to create a programme that is of interest and relevant to all those within our many, diverse communities. We also need to enable artists to make work of ambition. As such, we must be part of an ecology which nurtures art and artists, and which makes the production and presentation of high-quality work available.
We partner/produce/co-produce projects across all disciplines. We engage with artists, award bursaries, and residencies over a period of time to develop work, and potentially produce down the road.
Artists and Curators in Association 2026
Rita Hynes and Kieran Gallagher (Curators in Association).
Aoibhéann McCann, Paula Greevy-Lee, Baz Black and Emma Ray, Seán Tester and Dagogo Hart. (Artists in Association 2026) .
Droichead supports artists through a number of initiatives including:
- Artists and Curators in Association - where artists and curators are provided with mentoring; space, and a stipend to further develop their work and practice.
- FIRST SOLO AWARD – this award is an open call to visual artists in the North East Region, and offers support and funding at a key point in the careers of professional visual artists in the North East region who have yet to present a solo show.
- Makers Making More - The MMM initiative itself places an established artist (and their eyes and ears) at the core of producing events, workshops, Q&A’s for the community from which they come, with the intent of identifying artist’s unique needs and struggles, and devising creative solutions to enhance resources and empower artists. These workshops are free for attendees, but booking is recommended. Co-ordinated by Anthony Kinahan.
- Bespoke Projects - support for artists in the development of new work and projects.