In Conversation

Foundation for Creative Arts and Technology (FACT), as part of the DaDaFest International 2014

Simon Mckeown unveiled details about his project, 'Cork Ignite', at a special event which took place on December 1st at FACT as part of the Liverpool based arts festival, DaDafest International.

Simon, a Reader in the MIMA School of Art and Design was in conversation with leading UK and Irish arts practitioners discussing the ideas and production process behind this large scale art commission. A panel discussion considered 'Cork Ignite' and its funding model, which represented a unique partnership in Ireland featuring the largest ever investment in Ireland’s arts and disability sector. The panel discussion also focussed on the context of Mckeown's collaborative practise involving artists working together with communities. The panel for the event included Mary McCarthy, then Director of the National Sculpture Factory and Chair of Culture Ireland, Kath Gorman, Independent Producer and Cork Ignite Project Manager, Pádraig Naughton, Director of Arts & Disability Ireland, Dr Paul Darke, Academic, writer and cultural critic and Simon Mckeown.

Simon has over 25 years of professional creative experience and was awarded his own prestigious Cultural Olympiad/London 2012 Festival commission, which represented a watershed moment for contemporary disability art.