Introduction

Wicklow County Council’s Per Cent for Art Programme 2007-2008 is structured using four strands that encompass eight new commissions. The programme supports a range of artistic expressions and takes a broader approach to commissioning work than has been traditionally adopted in the County. It is the intention of the programme is to move beyond the permanent sculpture commission and support other approaches in the making and creation of art, as well as commissioning work in a range of disciplines.

The eight briefs were designed to offer artists support as well as a practicable budget, and sufficient time for the realisation of their proposals. Each of the commissions are manageable in scale and the duration of each is dependent on the artists process and practice. The commissioning body encouraged applications from a wide range of arts practitioners particularly those who might not have previously considered undertaking a Per Cent for Art commission.

The successful artists who are currently undertaking commissions as part of Wicklow County Council’s Per Cent for Art Programme 2007-2008 come from a diverse range of practices and backgrounds. The programme has been developed and is being co-ordinated by Wicklow County Arts Office.

Main features of the programme:

• Works will be commissioned in visual arts, literature, music, and new media/film.
• The programme gives full consideration to the Department of Arts, Sports and Tourisms General National Guidelines on Per Cent for Art commissioning.
• The overall programme design gives consideration to the county’s geography with a commitment to commissioning new work for specific towns, sites and areas (North, South, Mid Wicklow).
• The working brief for each commission enables artists to consider context and community in imaginative ways.
• The programme seeks new ideas and approaches in artistic response.