Not your everyday raffle...

Thousands of euros worth of art are up for grabs as a Cork city art studio gets its annual fundraising raffle underway.

With a total prize value of €4,920, tickets for Backwater Artists Group’s 2026 Members’ Artwork Raffle are available now, with the draw taking place on 11 December.

The raffle is a crucial fundraising initiative for the Wandesford Quay-based organisation, featuring ten artworks generously donated by its members.

The raffle offers participants the opportunity to win original artwork while directly supporting the local arts community.

For more than 36 years, Backwater Artists Group has supported artists through affordable studio spaces, professional development, and opportunities that help sustain artistic practice. Fundraising plays a vital role in enabling the organisation to continue this work, keeping fees affordable and ensuring artists can access the facilities and supports they need to develop their careers.

As rising living and working costs continue to place pressure on practising artists, accessible workspaces and professional support remain essential. Proceeds from the raffle will help Backwater Artists Group sustain its programme of supports and contribute to the cultural life of Cork city.

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

The selection includes works across a range of media, offering a varied collection of contemporary art.

The first prize winner will have first choice of artwork, followed by the second prize winner, and so on, until all ten prizes have been selected.

Winners can collect their artwork from the Backwater Artists Group office on Wandesford Quay from 14 December until the organisation closes for the Christmas break on 18 December. Shipping can also be arranged at the winner’s request.

By taking part, supporters can help sustain an independent arts organisation that has been an important part of Cork’s artistic community for more than three decades, while having the chance to bring an original artwork home.

Tickets are on sale now and cost €10 for one, €45 for five, and €100 for twelve and are available through the Backwater Artists Group website backwaterartists.ie. Anyone who would like assistance purchasing a ticket is also welcome to call into the Backwater office. The draw will take place on 11 December at 2pm.