Ireland is a unique state that has adopted a particular set of cultural characteristics within its cultural identity. This dissertation sets out to examine the development of particular cultural attributes in order to create a rationale for Irish art’s development. After briefly addressing Ireland’s cultural characteristics, the dissertation will address Ireland’s governmental intervention in the arts and culture through an examination of certain initiatives employed by the Department of Culture. Ultimately, Ireland’s first cultural policy document, Culture 2025, will be a particular focus. A comparative study with Latvia will be conducted in order to generate an understanding of Ireland’s approach to cultural policy. As Latvia incorporates non-governmental organisation that act as advisory boards or councils when implementing cultural policy, this will raise the question of decentralisation. To further examine how Ireland promotes Irish art and culture, the dissertation particularly chooses to analyse the importance of the Irish diaspora. It will address certain initiatives set up by the state, while also highlighting the diaspora’s philanthropic activities that aim to enhance both Irish culture and art. Further comparative research will be used to underline how a variety of nation’s have employed diaspora strategies due to an increasing awareness regarding the affect emigres can have on a nation’s cultural and economic growth. The dissertation will conclude by finalising how Ireland can further promote the Irish visual arts both at home and abroad.