Nominated by Project Arts Centre, Dublin 

Pádraig Naughton became Executive Director of Arts & Disability Ireland in 2005. Working strategically ADI champions the creativity of artists and promotes inclusive experiences for audiences. Activities include commissioning, support for artists in creating new work through funding, residency, mentoring and training opportunities and provision of access services. 

Pádraig graduated with an LLM in International & Comparative Disability Law & Policy. University of Galway (2022). He also holds a PGCE in Art & Design Teaching, Bretton Hall, University of Leeds (1998) and a Degree in Craft Design Ceramics, National College of Art & Design Dublin (1993). Pádraig established a studio practice, subsequently becoming Artistic Director of Equata: Disability Arts Development Agency South West England (2003). 

Pádraig is the former Chair of the VSA Affiliate Council (2015-2018), a global network of arts and disability organisations. The Kennedy Center recognized Pádraig’s lifetime achievement with an Excellence in Accessibility Leadership Award in 2022.  

Linkedin page: Pádraig Naughton