Waterford based artist shortlisted for major national award

Susanne Horsch, who works from her studio in Waterford, has been named one of ten finalists in the 2025 RDS Visual Art Awards, one of Ireland’s most prestigious platforms supporting emerging visual artists. 

Susanne is a multimedia installation artist using video, sound, performance, painting, and drawing.

Her work aims to create an immersive experience translating metaphorical concepts that highlight the symbiosis between the felt, bodily experience and the earth.

A graduate of the MFA Fine Art programme at the Belfast School of Art, Ulster University Belfast, Susanne joins an exceptional cohort of emerging artists being recognised for their outstanding creativity and technical skill.

The finalists, selected from the top BA and MA visual art graduates, will have their work featured in a major exhibition at the Royal Hibernian Academy (RHA) from November to January 25.

The awards offer a substantial prize fund of €56,000 along with important exposure, curated exhibition opportunities and career development support.

Speaking about the awards, Niamh de Loughry, Director RDS Foundation and Deputy CEO, RDS said: "The RDS Visual Art Awards represents the very essence of the RDS’s almost 300-year mission, to see Ireland thrive culturally and economically."

"In 2025, our prize fund of almost €60,000 offers vital, career-changing financial and professional support at a critical time for these artists," she added.

Niamh went on to comment: "We see this support as complementary of the state’s initiative to make the Basic Income for the Arts permanent. 

"Both efforts underpin the national understanding that art is not a luxury, it is a fundamental pillar of our society that requires a stable and supportive environment to thrive in."