Sean Campbell, a contemporary art sculptor based in Belleek, Fermanagh was enthusiastic about the venture:
“To be able to market and display my work on the web site will enable me to engage in trading opportunities in areas of Europe previously unavailable to small artists like me”
The campaign is being supported by a marketing package, including advertising, public relations, direct marketing, promotions and trade activity.
Speaking on behalf of the project partnership, Arigna LEADER of Leitrim & North Roscommon Manager, Martina Earley was very positive about the potential of the Source project:
“Creative Industries such as craft, design, architecture and the performing arts play a vital role in the economy especially in rural areas and are instrumental in developing and utilising innovative new technologies. It will give people a chance to bring their skills to a regional and international market whilst promoting their local area at the same time. This project will bring economic, social and business benefits to over 200 potential participants in rural areas”
Also speaking at the launch Mr Gerry McWhinney, Director of Corporate Policy Division in DARD said:
“ Transnational and cross border cooperation is about partnership working and innovation. It is about exchanging information and pooling resources, technology and know-how. This project is truly international, all of the partners have developed an international network which will use e-commerce and innovative marketing to connect and benefit small producers in remote areas of Europe. This is an excellent example of what LEADER can achieve”
Pat Moynan, Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs added:
“I would like to warmly welcome the establishment of the Source initiative and to wish it every success. There are significant benefits to be gained from sharing knowledge and building trading capabilities through collaborative North/South and transnational networks. I have no doubt that Source will prove a great success in terms of supporting cross-border and international cooperation in the creative industries.”
Attending and pictured at the launch of the Source; Developing Rural Creativity in Castlecoole was:
l-r: Angela Kelly; Catherine Ryan, Manager, Fermanagh LEADER; Lisbeth Vestin, Gudrun Lindberg and Vicci Andersson Sjöbom of Sweden; Martina Earley, Manager, Arigna Leader and Maura Noone
In addition, a new website, www.ruralcreativity.com will be launched, before the end of the year. It will showcase and market Sligo, Fermanagh, Leitrim, Roscommon and Swedish creative producers and artists as well as trading their products through an online gallery.
