A vibrant visual arts scene is fostered by two third level institutes - Gorey School of Art and Wexford Campus School of Art and Design I.T Carlow. Wexford is the birthplace of many contemporary literary giants such as Banville, Toibín and Colfer, while also being a hub for storytelling music, and drama.
Wexford has a rich heritage including built, cultural and environmental amenities, many internationally renowned. A gem of Ireland’s Ancient East, Wexford is a county steeped in history from ancient settlements and the Viking invaders in AD 850 to the first Norman’s landing at Bannow in 1169. The county is known for historical treasures like the medieval streets of Wexford Town, Vinegar Hill and Hook Lighthouse one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world.
There is an awareness in Wexford that to protect the environment involves embracing our cultural, ecological and economic assets. This is evidenced through the establishment of Wexford Heritage Trail and Wexford Craft Trail involving 83 businesses and community groups supporting 300 full-time jobs and 500 part-time jobs.
The Creative Ireland programme aims to provide a framework to encourage participation and growth in creativity by all citizens. The Culture and Creativity Strategy 2018-2022 identifies priorities with potential for long-term impact, community engagement and participation as well as new forms of collaboration and interdisciplinary work.
The strategy acknowledges the intrinsic value of culture and creativity and its contribution to the wellbeing of our society. It aims to ensure that culture continues to play an important role in the development of our towns, villages and public environments. It also acknowledges that culture and creativity act as a driver of economic growth and sustainability of our county.
