Paul Fahy has been named a Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by French Ambassador to Ireland Vincent Guérend during a ceremony at the Résidence de France.
The artistic director of Galway International Arts Festival (GIAF) was honoured for his significant work in the arts and the promotion of France-Ireland relations.
Guests at the French Ambassador’s residence in Ailsebury Road included members of Paul’s family and friends with well-known colleagues from the arts world.
These included artistic directors Garry Hynes, Druid; Fergus Shiel, Irish National Opera and Catriona MacLaughlin, Abbey Theatre.
GIAF colleagues in attendance included John Crumlish, Gerry Cleary, Tracey Ferguson and Elizabeth Duffy along with Chairperson Dr Patrick Lonergan from University of Galway.
“It is a huge honour to receive the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. I want to thank Ambassador Guérend and the French Ministry of Culture,” said Mr Fahy following the reception.
“I feel very humbled by this gesture and award. It has been a huge pleasure over the years working with so many wonderful artists, writers and performers and a joy to present the very best of French culture to Irish audiences, building links between Ireland and France and establishing long-lasting connections with French artists.”
The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Order of Arts and Letters) was established in 1957 and is awarded by the French Ministry of Culture to recognize eminent artists, writers, and scholars for their efforts in promoting the awareness and enrichment of France’s cultural heritage throughout the world.
