Winners of Credit Union Art Competition Announced

Posted on: 10 Feb 2020

Budding artists from the four corners of Ireland took the ‘Walk of Life’ to Croke Park today, Sunday 9th February, for the annual, All-Island Credit Union Art Competition.

30,000 entries were received for the Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) competition, which, in its 36^th year, is one of the longest-running competitions of its type. The eleven category winners, from across the age spectrum, received cash prizes from MC Marty Whelan at the gala prize-giving ceremony.
 

The theme for this year’s competition was the ‘Walk of Life’. This was specifically designed by credit unions to encourage participants to think about how society and communities change, grow and develop for the better. Irish communities have made many positive changes in recent years to ensure the country is a more inclusive, diverse and liberal place to live in. Participants gained inspiration from the positive changes they have witnessed in their own local communities, or in wider society. Others depicted positive changes they have gone through themselves as individuals, as they continue their journey through life.

The theme inspired some deeply thought-provoking and inspiring works, ranging from depictions of the path of life through nature, a depiction of evolution and the influence of the digital world in society today.
 
Speaking at the awards ceremony, ILCU Head of Communications, Paul Bailey said: “There is a thriving creative and artistic community across the island of Ireland and the credit union movement is dedicated to supporting and developing this  community. Our annual art event is just one example of the great work credit unions do in their local communities to ensure that both young and old have an outlet for their creative skills. This year credit unions wanted to use the opportunity to promote the message of culture and positive change in their communities, and the theme they have designed has led to some exceptional artistic creations.”
 
In addition to the ten individual winners and one group winner, there were 22 runner-up and merit awards. Age categories encompassed 7-years-and-under to 18-years-and-over. There was also a category for artists with learning difficulties. The competition is facilitated by credit unions in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Credit Union Art Competition 2019
Listing of Winners