The ARC programme builds upon the success of the MA in Visual Arts Practices (MAVIS) programme offered by  the Institute of Art, Design & Technology from 2004 to 2014. During its ten year history, MAVIS made a very significant contribution to the professionalisation and internationalisation of contemporary art in Ireland, with highly committed staff and students that included accomplished artists, curators and critics, as evidenced by the list of prominent MAVIS alumni. The ARC programme builds upon the achievements of MAVIS staff and graduates and an Alumni Network has been formed to provide ongoing opportunities for dialogue and exchange between ARC and MAVIS graduates.