It gives me great pleasure to present the new Strategic Plan for Butler Gallery, marking a pivotal moment in our journey since the gallery’s relocation to Evans’ Home. This is more than just our first strategic plan in this new space, it represents a bold vision for the future as we embrace a new era of artistic development, cultural engagement and community impact.

The past few years have been transformative for Butler Gallery. Our move to Evans’ Home has provided us with the opportunity to reimagine the role we play in the local and international arts landscape. In this period of reflection and renewal, we have focused on building a future that honours our legacy while actively exploring new horizons, including expanding our access to

diverse audiences, enhancing our programming, and maintaining sustainable growth. We are extremely grateful to the late Jane O’Malley for her generous donation of the O’Malley Bequest to the Butler Gallery to safeguard for the future. We are honoured by this bequest and will continue to preserve the legacy of both Tony and Jane O’Malley with ongoing displays of their work in our Collection Galleries, the imminent establishment of a bursary for artists in their name, and a dedication to scholarly presentations of their work over time.

This plan, the result of extensive collaboration and thoughtful consideration, lays the foundation for the next five years. It outlines our commitment to artistic excellence, inclusivity, innovation, and financial sustainability.

It will guide us as we continue to offer enriching experiences for our visitors, support groundbreaking contemporary exhibitions, celebrate our collections, and build lasting partnerships with artists, educators and the wider community.

As we embark on this exciting journey, I would like to express my gratitude to our board, staff, artists, facilitators and supporters, whose passion and dedication have shaped this vision. To our Patrons and Friends for their continued support and our funding partners the Arts Council, Kilkenny County Council and the Heritage Council for their continued trust and belief in our goals. A very special thanks also to our committed volunteers who bring a diverse energy to the Butler Gallery visitor experience, their time and dedication to Butler Gallery is greatly appreciated. Together, whilst building on the legacy of our founders, and continuing to emulate the pioneering spirit of Tony and Jane O’Malley, we look forward to charting the future of Butler Gallery, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and dynamic space for the visual arts in Ireland.

Kathleen Moran

Chairperson