Sample-Studios and Cork International Film Festival have announced the 2026 Parallax Emerging Film Artist Award Exhibition, showcasing the work of four outstanding emerging film artists from across Ireland at The Lord Mayor’s Pavilion, Fitzgerald’s Park, from 13–28 November.
Established in 2023, the Parallax Emerging Film Artist Award is a partnership between Sample-Studios and Cork International Film Festival (CIFF), dedicated to recognising, supporting and championing the next generation of Irish film artists. Bringing together Ireland’s largest artist studios and Ireland’s largest film festival, the initiative provides emerging talent with vital opportunities for professional development, recognition and exposure at a formative stage in their careers.
Parallax is now in its fourth year. It has expanded its reach and impact with the introduction of a jury-selected exhibition featuring four shortlisted graduate artists.
Presented as part of the 71st Cork International Film Festival, the exhibition offers an important platform for ambitious new work, connecting emerging artistic voices with audiences, industry professionals and Ireland’s wider cultural community.
This year’s shortlisted artists are:
- Harrison Connally (MTU Crawford College of Art & Design)
- Autumn MacNamara (Limerick School of Art and Design)
- Andy Chirali (National College of Art and Design)
- Nikol Ochichenko (Institute of Art, Design and Technology).
Their outstanding work will be showcased in an engaging exhibition celebrating the artistic ambition of a new generation of film artists.
One artist will be announced as the 2026 Parallax Award winner during the Festival, receiving a €3,000 bursary, 12-month honorary membership of Sample-Studios and accreditation for the 72nd Cork International Film Festival.
Fiona Clark, Cork International Film Festival Director & CEO, said: “Creating opportunities for emerging artists and giving new creative voices a platform is vital to the future of Ireland’s artistic landscape. Through our partnership with Sample-Studios, the Parallax Award allows us to celebrate the talent and ambition of a new generation of Irish film artists. We’re delighted to bring their work to a wider audience as part of this year’s Festival.”
Aoibhie McCarthy, Artistic Director of Sample-Studios, remarked: “Through this partnership, Sample-Studios and CIFF are strengthening pathways into professional artistic practice, providing meaningful support and creating opportunities for emerging film artists to develop their careers.”
Exhibition Details:
Parallax Emerging Film Artist Award Exhibition
13–28 November 2026
The Lord Mayor’s Pavilion, Fitzgerald’s Park, Cork City
Tuesday–Saturday, 11am–4pm
The Sample-Studios Exhibition Programme at The Lord Mayor’s Pavilion is generously supported by the Arts Council and Cork City Council.
