Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m from Dublin and recently came back to the arts after living in London for some years and taking a detour into media, where I worked as a journalist and broadcaster in print media, the web, radio and TV.
What are your qualifications?
Aside from my early art college years I have a diploma in journalism and a Master in Cultural Policy and Arts Management.
How would you describe the responsibilities of the position of Arts Officer?
The Arts Officers here tend to take responsibility for different areas of Dublin’s cultural life if you like, covering everything from events like the Writer’s Festival to local music festivals as well as the works that's unseen which enhances and support the practice of artists, musicians and performers. I work with Sheena Barrett, who curates The LAB Gallery, and with the Public Art Manager RuairÍ Ó CuÍv. Assisting both might see me arranging the launch of a new public art work or coordinating a new exhibition in the gallery. It’s a wonderful variety of work, which I love.
How would you describe a typical week/day in this position?
Everyone says there is no typical week and this is true! I might be mailing hundreds of invites one day and helping an artist install a show the next, it depends on what is happening.
What do you like about working here at The LAB?
The team here is fantastic, with a great work ethic and terrifically supportive. It’s such good experience and never boring. There is also a real sense of being part of the cultural fabric of Dublin City, which I think is hugely important, as in many ways we are not great at appreciating what we as a city are good at. And we are good at the arts!
What are those things that motivate you to do this job?
I really enjoy being part of the process that allows creative projects to happen, and on a more personal level I find it hugely satisfying when imagination meets expertise and the seemingly impossible becomes reality.
What qualities are most important for an arts officer?
Patience, a creative approach to problem solving, an organised mind (but not necessarily desk) and the ability to listen.
Tell us something about an art project you have worked on?
Gradcam’s ‘Food Thing’ feast to celebrate the Dublin Tall Ships festival during the summer was really interesting, as the artists designed a menu that explored the Dublin docklands and its history through food and the various ingredients’ connections with the city. It was so layered and so many things at once: history, art, food, collaboration, society, and conviviality, all on one hectic and brilliant evening!
Does the Arts office encourage and facilitate innovation among artists?
Absolutely, and it helps when artists are already thinking about how they can resolve issues that might arise when they begin a project.
