Celebrating Traveller Artists: A Day of Inspiration and Collaboration in Dublin

In a significant step forward for representation in the arts, a conference titled ‘Suni Arárk a thadyr’ (looking ahead with pride) was held in Dublin. Organized by Pavee Point with support from the Arts Council, this one-day event focused on the unique challenges faced by Traveller Artists.

The Conference: Suni Arárk a thadyr

More than just a discussion, Suni Arárk a thadyr featured panel discussions, break-out sessions, and interviews, bringing together a group of influential participants who support the arts community. The event highlighted the importance of addressing underrepresentation and discrimination against Traveller artists in the industry.

Key Issues: Accessibility and Recognition

Conference participants emphasized the need for greater access to arts funding and a dedicated venue for the Traveller community. Discussions also covered the importance of supporting young Travellers in owning their artistic identity and the necessity for local authorities to tackle discrimination against Travellers.

Championing Change: Martin Collins, Director at Pavee Point

Co-Director of Pavee Point, Martin Collins, addressed the persistent issues of discrimination and racism in the arts sector. “While we’ve made progress, we’re far from where we should be,” he stated. Collins called for increased anti-racism and cultural competency training to ensure full access for Traveller artists.

The Arts Council’s Commitment

Director of the Arts Council, Maureen Kennelly, voiced her commitment to supporting and developing Traveller artists. She announced a goal to grow the representation of Traveller artists applying for funding from 0.3% to 0.6%, describing it as a step towards creating a more inclusive environment in the arts.

Vision for the Future: Rosaleen McDonagh

Rosaleen McDonagh, a writer and Arts Council board member, expressed excitement about the ongoing “Traveller renaissance around creativity and art.” McDonagh envisions a future where Traveller artists can not only participate but also lead in the creative sector.

Real Stories and Real Misunderstandings

Actor Michael Collins shared his experiences in the arts sector. He described a scenario where a film director questioned his reliability, attributing his skepticism to Collins’ Traveller background. Collins’ anecdote underscores the need for greater awareness and understanding of the challenges Travellers face in navigating the arts industry.

Embracing Modernity and Heritage: Trish Reilly

Singer Trish Reilly encouraged participants to celebrate Traveller culture while embracing modern influences. She advised against expecting young Travellers to exclusively depict traditional elements like covered wagons or caravans.

Martin Beanz Warde: Bridging Gaps in the Arts

Writer and performer Martin Beanz Warde spoke about the underrepresentation of Travellers in the arts and the need for a proactive, inclusive approach. He suggested that arts organizations should initiate outreach efforts and support Travellers in accessing funding opportunities.

Warde stressed the importance of recognizing that Travellers lack social capital in the funding landscape. He underscored the need for comprehensive guidance on how to apply for grants, making the process more accessible and less daunting.

The Path Forward: A Call to Action

The success of ‘Suni Arárk a thadyr’ marks a significant milestone in the struggle for equal representation in the arts. The conference brought together key stakeholders and highlighted the importance of ongoing dialogue to tackle the systemic issues facing Traveller artists.

Martin Collins’ assertion that the arts sector is not confined to “the settled community and the elite” rings true today more than ever. As we move forward, it is crucial to foster an inclusive environment that values and celebrates the unique contributions of Traveller artists.

Through initiatives like this conference, the arts community has taken an important step towards achieving greater diversity and representation. As we continue to advocate for Traveller artists, we can look forward to a future where creativity knows no bounds.

We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments section below. Join the conversation and help us build a more inclusive arts community.