Cavan Monaghan Arts and Health Forum Showcases Irish Leadership at International Culture and Health Summit in Vienna

Arts and health practitioners from Cavan and Monaghan represented Ireland on the international stage this month at a prestigious European gathering exploring the role of culture in promoting health and wellbeing.

Representatives of the Cavan Monaghan Arts and Health Forum travelled to Vienna to participate in the Culture and Health Platform Forum, joining policymakers, researchers, artists and health professionals from across Europe to share learning, strengthen international partnerships and advance the growing field of arts and health.

The delegation included local artists Daragh Slacke, Olga Anacka, and Áine Farrelly, accompanied by Kim Doherty, Art Therapist, and Elisha Mc Caffrey, Arts & Health Manager. Together, they represented the innovative work taking place in Ireland where creative practice is increasingly being recognised as a powerful contributor to individual and community wellbeing.

The Forum has become a leading example of cross-sector collaboration, bringing together artists, healthcare professionals, educators, community organisations and public agencies to develop meaningful arts and health initiatives. Through a range of participatory arts projects, the Forum continues to demonstrate how creative engagement can support social inclusion, mental health, community connection and healthy ageing.

Attendance at the Vienna Forum provided an opportunity to engage with emerging European research, share local experiences and contribute to important discussions on how culture can be embedded within health and wellbeing policy and practice.

Speaking following the event, Elisha Mc Caffrey, Arts & Health Manager, said:

"It was a privilege to represent Cavan, Monaghan and Ireland at this important European gathering. The Culture and Health Platform recognises the growing evidence that participation in the arts can make a significant contribution to health and wellbeing. We were proud to share the innovative work being delivered through the Cavan Monaghan Arts and Health Forum while learning from inspiring colleagues across Europe. These international connections strengthen our commitment to developing creative opportunities that improve quality of life and build healthier communities."

The artists who attended also had the opportunity to exchange ideas with fellow practitioners from across Europe, exploring new approaches to socially engaged practice, community participation and creative health interventions.

The Forum's participation reflects the increasing recognition of Ireland's contribution to the international arts and health movement and highlights the value of continued investment in creative approaches that support health, wellbeing and community resilience.

As the Cavan Monaghan Arts and Health Forum continues to grow, the learning and partnerships developed in Vienna will help inform future projects, strengthen regional collaboration and create new opportunities for communities throughout Cavan and Monaghan to engage with the arts as part of everyday wellbeing.