Sirius Arts Centre acts as an intermediary between art and the public, by raising awareness of contemporary art through a challenging, multi-disciplinary programme. Sirius Arts Centre advocates for the importance and value of the arts and offers opportunities for participation and professional development for artists.

Sirius Arts Centre is housed in a beautiful Italianate building that was designed by Anthony Salvin and built by James Smith Barry of Fota in 1854 to house the Royal Cork Yacht Club, the oldest in the world (founded in 1720 on Haulbowline Island). Salvin was best known for his restoration work on Windsor Castle and the Tower of London.