Noice!
atest press release from Simon Harris TD, issued on Monday, 
October 7th 2024…
Taoiseach Simon Harris said: “Art centres offer support to professional, collaborative, voluntary and amateur arts practice. In other words, they are a foundational and far-reaching contributor to our communities and our culture.
“The positivity that the Centre has brought into people’s lives is not an accident but consistently driven by Mermaid’s fundamental belief in the power of shared experiences in combatting loneliness and isolation and in the right to freedom of artistic expression and creation for all.
confident that the centre will only continue to grow from strength to strength.”
In early 2024 the executive, Board, and local artists convened in a series of workshops to interrogate the ambitions in Mermaid’s strategic plan. The purpose, vision, and mission were updated, and the Centre’s strategic goals were refined. The Strategic Plan outlines a clear vision for the arts centre as the home for creative communities in Wicklow and as the arts centre of choice for Ireland’s artists. The key strategic goals are the encouragement of connection and wellbeing in Co. Wicklow, the championing of artists and new artwork, and a commitment to working sustainably.
Artistic Director and CEO Julie Kelleher said: “Mermaid is dedicated to powering creativity in Co. Wicklow. At Mermaid we believe in the power of shared experience and connection, and in the right to freedom of artistic expression and creation for all. We provide such experiences for over 38,000 people annually. We’re enormously grateful for the support of Wicklow County Council and Arts Council Ireland which helps us to carry out our mission. We look forward to continuing partnership as we work towards delivering on this plan.”
I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to vision of this plan, from local artists to the team and board at Mermaid Arts Centre, as we work towards protecting this special place for generations to come.”
There are a wide range of events in the current programme at Mermaid Arts Centre, including music, theatre, traditional storytelling, comedy and family events. With many events sold out already, early booking is advised.