Arts Impact
As the funding and development organisation for the Arts in Northern Ireland, we collate and publish data and information on the role of arts to society and the economy.
We have reports, official statistics and case studies below, that can help all of us tell the story of the outcomes of public investment in the arts.
Below are case studies and data demonstrating the work of artists and the impact of investment in the arts.
The three areas that will be particularly important for 2026/27 are:
These priorities are part of our wider draft 10 year strategy
Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs attends The Blades Art Collective event at Stormont, Parliament Buildings
‘I’m really inspired to be here. To see the work that’s being done here and the hope that’s being expressed. What it’s doing is highlighting the role of women in rural areas but also the importance of our environment bringing all that together through the expression of art’
- Andrew Muir, Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs of Northern Ireland at exhibition during International Rural Women’s Day 2026
First and Deputy First Ministers of Northern Ireland on the Impact of the Arts
'The arts have a vital role to play in that shared future here. The arts support our economy, sustain thousands of jobs, and give expression to voices that might otherwise go unheard. But just as importantly, they help us imagine what we can be together'
First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O'Neill
'It has been a place where all communities have come together to explore the many varied aspects of our complex identities in Northern Ireland through art at a time when so many of us had to resist binary and simplistic labelling of who we are and what we are.
And that is indeed the joy of the arts. That is the huge value, of course, of the arts and what it brings to the human experience'
Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly
Lyric 75 year Anniversary
Minister for Communities attends Arts Care NI 'Fleadh for All' as part of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026
'It is great to see the significant impact that engagement in the arts makes on peoples’ lives, improving health and wellbeing for all, particularly those coping with long-term health conditions'
Gordon Lyons, Minister for Communities reflected on the the power of the arts during Arts Care NI's Fleadh for All
Arts Impact Cards - key facts and data.
An arts sector more valued in society & government.
More facts and data are available through Thrive - the research and evaluation organisation for the arts in Northern Ireland.
From their IMPACT 25-26 Report surveyed audiences responded Arts organisations are doing an excellent job - over 91% of respondents rated their experience as very good or good. Read the report to find out more.
Thrive's 100 Stories booklet also shares qualitative data on the difference the arts makes across Northern Ireland.
