A county boasting rich artistic heritage from renowned Mullingar-based author JP Donleavy to 18th-century writer Oliver Goldsmith, not to mention Athlone’s celebrated tenor Count John McCormack, Westmeath’s cultural, creative and local roots are all being drawn upon for its Creative Ireland Culture and Creativity Plan.

With the Creative Ireland programme centred around the themes of identity, culture and citizenship, Westmeath’s part in the initiative’s five-year journey began with its plans in 2017. Local Authorities have been an invaluable focal point in community engagement and they continue to play a vital and important role in creating, developing and supporting artists and citizens to experience, participate and unlock their unique creative potential.

From the growing of Westmeath’s profile as a location for film production to promoting the county’s arts and tourism facilities, the county is putting its creativity and cultural heritage centre-stage.

From the growing of Westmeath’s profile as a location for film production to promoting the county’s arts and tourism facilities like Athlone Castle and Luan Gallery, as well as strengthening the cultural infrastructure of venues and arts spaces such as Belvedere House and Gardens, Mullingar and Tuar Ard Arts Centre, Moate; the county is putting its creativity and cultural heritage centre-stage.