Located in Manfield Chambers at the corner of Middle Abbey Street and Lower O'Connell Street, the project will deliver 21 private artist studios overlooking Dublin's main thoroughfare. The one-year pilot aims to test a sustainable model for providing affordable artist workspace through collaboration between local authorities and sector organisations.

Addressing a Longstanding Need

Access to affordable and suitable studio space remains one of the most significant challenges facing visual artists across Ireland. While studio provision exists, many artists continue to face barriers including rising costs, limited availability, building maintenance issues, insecure tenure, and a lack of long-term funding models.

The O'Connell Street Artists Studios pilot seeks to explore a practical solution by offering affordable, city-centre workspaces while testing a model that could be replicated elsewhere.

Studio Features

Successful applicants will benefit from:

• Private, own-door studio spaces
• Natural light through large heritage windows
• Blank canvas interiors ready for creative use
• A community of 21 visual artists working in the city centre
• A prominent location overlooking O'Connell Street

Monthly rent: €200 to €300, plus overheads (electricity, internet and common area services).

Studios will be available from September 2026.

Open Day

Artists interested in applying are invited to attend an Open Day on:

Thursday, 20 August 2026
12.00pm to 2.00pm

Location:
O'Connell Street Artists Studios
Manfield Chambers
Corner of Middle Abbey Street and Lower O'Connell Street, Dublin

Visitors will have the opportunity to view the spaces, review contracts and ask questions about the programme.

Please note that as the premises remain an active building site, no additional viewing dates will be available.

About the Pilot Programme

The initiative will run on a pilot basis for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extension. The project is designed to demonstrate a model for delivering affordable artist workspaces in central urban locations.

Following an evaluation period, the studios may transition to an open-call management model operated by an existing or emerging studio provider using the Visual Artists Ireland business framework. Artists participating in the pilot will be given priority consideration should the programme continue beyond the initial pilot period.

Eligibility

Applications are open to visual artists only.

Please note that commercial entities, commercial activities and artists working in other art forms are not eligible for this programme.

To apply, complete the application form available through Visual Artists Ireland.