Ten artworks worth €4,920 are up for grabs in this year’s fundraising raffle, supporting affordable studio spaces and opportunities for artists in Cork.

Backwater Artists Group is delighted to announce its 2026 Members’ Artwork Raffle, featuring ten artworks generously donated by members of the organisation. With a combined value of €4,920, the raffle offers supporters the chance to win an original artwork while helping sustain the work of one of Cork’s established artist-support organisations.

Tickets go on sale at 10am on Tuesday 3 November 2026, with the draw taking place at Backwater Artists Group on Friday 11 December at 2pm.

Supporting artists and artistic practice

For more than 34 years, Backwater Artists Group has supported artists by providing affordable studio spaces, professional development and opportunities to sustain their artistic careers. Fundraising is essential to this work, helping the organisation keep fees affordable and continue providing the resources and support that artists need.

As the cost of living and working continues to put pressure on practising artists, access to affordable workspaces and professional development opportunities remains crucial. The annual Members’ Artwork Raffle gives the wider community a direct way to support this work and contribute to Cork’s cultural life.

A collection of original artworks

This year’s raffle features ten artworks donated by nine members: Liudmila Kalinka, Ciara Gormley, Ailbhe Ní Bhriain, Shane O’Driscoll, Oonagh Hurley, Hilda Goold, Brian Barry, Seán Hanrahan and Kate O’Kelly.

Spanning a variety of media and approaches, the collection reflects the breadth of artistic practice within the Backwater community. Individual artwork values range from €200 to €1,100, with the total value of the prizes amounting to €4,920.

How to take part

Tickets will be available digitally through the Backwater Artists Group website from Tuesday 3 November. Anyone who would like assistance purchasing a ticket can also call into the Backwater office.

All ten artworks will be raffled, with winners choosing their artwork in order: the first prize winner selects first, followed by the second prize winner, and so on.

Winners can collect their artworks from the Backwater Artists Group office between Monday 14 and Friday 18 December 2026. Shipping can also be arranged at the winner’s request.

By taking part in the 2026 Members’ Artwork Raffle, you can support local artists, help sustain affordable creative spaces and bring an original piece of art into your home.

Find out more and purchase your tickets at
www.backwaterartists.ie/raffle