Visual Artists Ireland (VAI) is the representative body for professional visual artists across Ireland, dedicated to advocacy, support, and information dissemination. Founded in 1980 as the Sculptors’ Society of Ireland, it expanded its remit in 2005 to encompass all visual arts disciplines. VAI offers a range of services, including professional development workshops, residencies, and publications like The Visual Artists' News Sheet. It also provides resources such as helpdesks, equipment hire, and advocacy for artists' rights, including fair payment practices. Through these initiatives, VAI fosters a vibrant and sustainable visual arts community throughout Ireland.