We are pleased to announce that our Navigator artist in residence for 2026 is Méabh McKenna.
Utilising the harp, voice, electronics and percussion, Méabh McKenna is a multi-instrumental sound artist currently based in Dublin. Drawing on years of experimentation and collaboration, her live performances have evolved from traversing the eclectic worlds of traditional, classical, and early music, intuitively weaving them with contemporary and electronic elements.
The Improvised Music Company’s Navigator programme offers jazz and improvising musicians professionally remunerated time and space to develop and perform work, while building creative and professional relationships in new locations.
Established in 2021, the Navigator programme has allowed 27 musicians to enjoy bespoke residencies through An Grianán and the other partner venues Ballina Arts Centre;The Source Arts Centre, Thurles; Riverbank Arts Centre, Newbridge; Courthouse Arts, Tinahel;, Garter Lane, Waterford Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast; and, new for 2026, Triskel Arts Centre, Cork.
Here at An Grianán, we have enjoyed past residencies with Cormac McCarthy, Olesya Zdorovetska, Conor McAuley, So-Young Yoon and Paul Dunlea.
“I have never felt so connected with creative people in such a short period, and on top of that, unexpected opportunities emerged throughout the seven days of the residency.” So-Young Yoon, 2024 Navigator Artist.
“The residency enabled me to exhale and spend time reflecting on my craft as well as hone in on areas that I needed more exposure to. Spending time at the theatre creating, exploring the coastline and collaborating with local traditional musicians were all very inspiring experiences that wouldn’t have been made possible without the residency.” Paul Dunlea, 2025 Navigator Artist
