Connected Hubs and the Contemporary Irish Art Society (CIAS) have once again been shortlisted in the prestigious Business to Arts Awards, this time in the CBRE Creativity in the Workplace category.
The nomination recognises the continued success of Art in the Hubs, a partnership between Connected Hubs, delivered by the Western Development Commission on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and the Contemporary Irish Art Society.
This is the fourth consecutive year that the partnership has been recognised by the Business to Arts Awards, reflecting the programme’s continued impact and growth.
Since launching as a pilot initiative, Art in the Hubs has expanded into a nationwide programme, with 40 Connected Hubs now participating across Ireland. Each hub receives a curated selection of artworks from the CIAS collection to begin building a permanent art collection, while also committing to acquire a work annually from a local artist. The initiative supports Irish artists, enhances workspaces and strengthens connections between hubs and their local communities.
Over the past year, participating hubs have embraced the programme in new ways, hosting exhibitions and a range of arts-focused events that have further enriched their communities and workspaces.
Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the Western Development Commission, said:
“Art has the power to transform the spaces where we work and connect. Through Art in the Hubs, we are bringing contemporary Irish art into workplaces across the country, supporting artists and making our hubs more welcoming, inspiring places to work and connect. It is wonderful to see the initiative continue to grow. We are delighted to see this work recognised once again by the Business to Arts Awards.”
Mary Pavlides, Chairperson of the Contemporary Irish Art Society, said:
“Art belongs in everyday life, and workplaces are an important part of that. Through our partnership with Connected Hubs, we are bringing contemporary Irish art into communities across Ireland, while supporting local artists and encouraging people to engage with art in places they visit every day.”
The winners of the 2026 Business to Arts Awards will be announced at a ceremony in the National Concert Hall on Monday, 7 September.
