The Irish Arts and Culture Program

If you’re reading this that means you’re considering doing this program to which I have to say go for it. I was in the arts and culture program and I had a lot of fun. I would not call myself by any means an artist yet I still had a lot of fun and felt accepted by the other people here even by those who had spent a year in art school. I would say that if you are someone who likes to spend time outdoors this program may not be for you. You spend a lot of time doing art inside though you still do go on trips around ireland and occasionally go surfing. The staff for arts were so nice (alex and odhran) and made it super fun. The town of bundoran is definitely rural so keep that in mind if you are a city person. Overall I am very grateful to have done this program and met amazing new friends.

the people who work at and attend irish gap year are fun and kind. i recommend irish gap year to anyone who enjoys making friendships and spending quality time with unique and amazing people. in the arts group i have met like minded people who share similar passions and interests as me. the arts and adventure groups live together creating a balanced and exciting social scene. if you are looking for a more lowkey time to reflect and create, definitely apply to the arts and culture program. if you are looking for an adventure to push yourself, i recommend the adventure and leadership program.

Definitely the best decision I could have made as an early adult. Even after I paid for everything, it was all more than worth it in the end. Not just for the experience, but also for the friendships you make, the values you gain, and the memories you will never forget. Not only do you get to learn more about the culture, but you’re right in it as if you’ve lived here forever. Of course, there will always be ups and downs, but in the end, this program is more than worth the time and energy. Thank

I wasn’t sure what to expect going in and I was feeling stressed but it was better than I ever expected. My time here in Ireland has been the best of my life. The people welcome you with open arms and hearts and I have learned so much about myself and about others. The art workshops exceeded my expectations, the tutors were all so kind and taught me so much. Being able to travel to different cities and learn about various aspects of Irish history was so cool. It was a surreal experience and one that I would definitely recommend.

My experience here in the Irish Gap Year Arts and Culture program was absolutely incredible. I was nervous coming into the program, but I soon realized I had nothing to worry about. I met some of the most amazing people here, and have learned very valuable life lessons with IGY.
Coming into the program, I was a little scared about the artistic side of the program. I was scared that everyone who does the program has to be very interested in art, and that you had to be incredibly professional. This was not the case at all! I was able to express my creativity and artistic side in whatever way that felt comfortable to me without feeling like I didn’t belong here. Everyone here is incredibly kind, welcoming, and non-judgemental. The tutors are amazing individuals who are so passionate about helping the students learn.

I’m so glad I decided to do the Arts and Culture Program. I will forever be grateful for my time here and the experiences I had. I really recommend this program for anyone who is creative and wants to explore their artistic side more.

It was so much fun and I learned a lot. Everyone who works in the program is incredibly friendly and the atmosphere was so good. I would definitely recommend it.
Bundoran is a great town that felt very very safe and we went on a lot of fun trips.
The art classes were so great and I learned a lot. We did a lot of different types of art and the exhibition was a lot of fun.
Our day to day was pretty relaxed but busy and fun. I made a lot of great friends and have no regrets about doing the program.
ALL HAIL RYAN ALLEN.

I had zero art experience before coming here, but I learned so much and it was a very non-judgemental environment. I didn't feel bad about initially being bad at art. The teachers here are all amazing both at teaching and as people. The living quarters are not bad at all, and they are close to some great views. There are multiple trips to different cities and places that are also very fun. The program leaders are quite friendly and helpful and they treat you like a human being rather than just cattle to be moved around.

The arts and culture program is a great opportunity for those who are interested in art and are willing to travel. You get to work with brilliant tutors in really distinct mediums, and live in a beautiful location. There’s a good mix between technical learning and creative freedom. There’s a good balance between adult supervision and independence. For those who haven’t lived on their own, this is a perfect stepping stone to that. You also get to travel around Ireland, which is really cool. The trips around Ireland are also unique, and you get to see amazing sights with enough free time to explore on your own.