Cork organisations urged to don their thinking caps for Culture Night 2020
WHILE Covid-19 has played havoc with the social calendar this year there is some good news for ‘culture vultures’ following the announcement that Culture Night 2020 will go ahead on Friday, September 18.
Since it was established in 2016 Culture night, propelled by the enthusiasm of artists and cultural organisations, has captured the public imagination inspiring thousands of people to avail of the opportunity to visit museums, galleries, historic houses, artists’ studios and cultural centres across Ireland.
It will come as no surprise that, given the consequences of the Coronaviris epidemic, that this years event will be unlike any other, which is why organisers are urging organisations to begin planning for the night now.
“The Covid pandemic has had enormous social, cultural and economic impact and has severely affected the entire arts and cultural sector. We are also seeing how, in this crisis, the arts sector has been able to react positively and to connect with people in new ways and formats,” said a Culture Night spokesperson.
“It is within the context of Covid-19 Culture Night Cork County is asking cultural organisations to think about how this years event can be re-imagined, to continue to celebrate those great qualities of imagination, passion, creativity and energy in the radically changed environment in which we now find ourselves,” said the spokesperson.
With this in mind, Culture Night 2020 organisers are inviting organisations to take part either by holding an event in their local area, or by doing a virtual online event which can be promoted at both local and national level.
“All events must be free of charge. This year additional requirements regarding public safety must be taken into account when planning your event and organisers must ensure that any activities involving members of the public must comply with Covid-19 social distancing protocols,” said the spokesperson.
Alternatively, groups can create an online event for, which can be live or pre-recorded and issued as a live event over the course of the evening.
Once people have decided upon the format of their event they are requested to complete an online event information form, which must be submitted by 5pm on Monday, July 20.
Details of how to access the form and more information, advice and support are available from the Cork County Council Arts office on: 021 4346210 ext 6971 or via email: culturenightcorkcounty@gmail.com.