Street arts network launches four-year strategic plan
ISACS - the Irish Street Arts Circus and Spectacle Network - has launched its 2022 – 2025 Strategic Plan today. The network has positioned itself as a leading example of an artist-first organisation which supports the street, circus and spectacle art forms of Ireland.
The plan outlines the strategy for the future development of the ISACS network as a whole and positions it as a knowledge hub for those wishing to deepen their understanding of these art forms in Ireland. Strategic goals include the celebration of the history, value and potential of this work, and it’s vital work as a practical and political advocate for policy changes to allow these sectors to thrive in Ireland. The Network will continue to support its hundreds of members to deliver high quality work and to sustain livelihoods within each sector.
Lucy Medlycott, director, ISACS, said “We are buoyed up by the enormous appetite and hunger of the ISACS membership who continue to create, inspire and connect with audiences of all backgrounds across Ireland. There has never been a more important time for artists to be supported, recognised and encouraged and that is what we in the ISACS network love to do. We look forward to the future with anticipation and are excited for what we can achieve as a caring collective.”
ISACS recognises the history and value of the skilled, diverse, engaging and deliberately boundary-breaking work of its artists. As part of its strategy, it will proactively engage with policy makers, producers, and the public, regarding the value, diversity and opportunities presented by these art forms. Speaking on the development of the Network, Maureen Kennelly, Director, Arts Council of Ireland said “In the decade since their initial formation, ISACS have successfully established a track-record as a leading voice in the circus street arts and spectacle sector.”
The strategic plan outlines the development and delivery of a communications strategy that advocates for the value, quality, diversity, history, achievements, and accessibility of its art forms. The organisation will gather data on the evolution, growth and impact of these art forms in Ireland and design and lead a symposium in Ireland to build understanding of the sector and forge new collaborations. It also recognises the breadth and diversity of audiences who engage with street and circus arts.
ISACS vows to continue to be an advocate for effective resourcing for the development of the sector in Ireland. It will ensure that these art forms are embedded into future arts education, arts tourism and arts heritage policy documents. It will highlight the need for infrastructural investment, physical space, and educational programmes. It will continue to campaign for an accessible insurance market for the industry alongside the Alliance for Insurance Reform. In addition, it will encourage the development of a national archive of circus and street arts to maintain, protect and preserve the heritage, story and legacy of these artforms.
ISACS membership has grown from 10 in 2012 to over 200 in 2021. As the network continues to grow, it will continue to respond to members needs through mentoring, training programmes, development and wellbeing opportunities. It will continue to proactively encourage increased engagement with young people and artists who are currently underrepresented in the sector. For more on the work of ISACS visit ISACS.ie