Screen Wicklow and Wicklow County Arts Office, supported by Clermont Screen Hub, are delighted to announce the recipients of the Wicklow Short Film Award for 2026.  The two funding awards of €15,000 each form part of the ongoing support provided to the local screen sector by Wicklow County Council.

The adjudication panel was led by producer Cormac Fox and director & writer Mark O Connor.  Both are highly experienced and respected film professionals. 

Following a highly competitive application process, with many high-quality submissions received, the two short film projects selected by the independent adjudication panel were:

Where We Left Off – Submitted by Seán Treacy

Elephant in the Room – Submitted by Maureen O’Connell

These short films will be between 10 and 15 minutes in duration and will shoot at Wicklow locations. Upon completion, the short films will be entered into local and international film festivals, further boosting the strong international reputation of County Wicklow as a prime location for film and television production. Funding has enabled these projects to progress from script to screen and has provided opportunities for locally based cast and crew. 

Commenting on the awards, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan stated, “The overall quality of the applications received for this award highlights the creative talent in our county.  We congratulate the recipients of the funding awards, and thank all those who took the time to submit an application.”

Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman noted, “The Screen Industry continues to be an important employer and economic driver for Wicklow.  Wicklow County Council is delighted to offer these two awards which recognise the importance of supporting smaller independent and local talent.”