The Living Artfully project, came to a powerful and moving close at Borris House, where nine remarkable creative projects were showcased through film, performance, and participant reflections. The event captured the heart of what Living Artfully set out to achieve: building confidence, reducing isolation, and supporting wellbeing through meaningful engagement with the arts. Across Carlow and Kilkenny, participants took part in workshops ranging from poetry, song, and movement to visual art and collaborative storytelling. Many shared deeply personal stories about how the project helped them reconnect with joy, rebuild confidence, and find space for expression during challenging times. The closing performance by Iarla Ó Lionáird, featuring a specially commissioned piece inspired by the project, added a profound emotional resonance—beautifully encapsulating the spirit, strength, and creativity that defined Living Artfully.
As we share this video, Creative Kilkenny would like to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this programme possible. Our warmest gratitude goes to the participating groups and communities, whose openness, courage, and creativity shaped each project from the ground up. The artists and creatives—many based here in Kilkenny—whose talent, compassion, and dedication created safe, inspiring spaces for expression and connection. The volunteers, whose generosity and quiet support ensured activities were welcoming, accessible, and inclusive. The project coordinator, whose, organisation, and leadership brought together partners across counties and kept the programme rooted in quality frameworks which enabled care, collaboration, and shared purpose. The legacy of Living Artfully extends far beyond its final event. It lives on in the friendships formed, the confidence gained, the stories shared, and the renewed belief in the value of creativity as a foundation for wellbeing and community life. We hope you enjoy this video capturing the journey, the voices, and the impact of Living Artfully—and the creativity that continues to flourish across Carlow and Kilkenny. This project was funded through Creative Ireland and the Creative Health and Wellbeing Fund.
