'Commercial galleries are not only free to visit but also offer a unique opportunity to invest in and own art that you love...' Rayne Booth of the Contemporary Art Gallery Association introduces the inaugural Dublin Gallery Weekend, which runs from November 10th – 12th forthcoming.
They say no one visits Dublin for the weather.
People are drawn to our capital city for its history and culture, famous landmarks, unique architecture, thriving museums and lively pubs and nightlife. In a city renowned for its literature, theatre, and history, it's easy to overlook another vibrant aspect of Dublin's cultural scene - its contemporary art. Dublin's arts scene is mainly concentrated in public institutions such as the RHA, Hugh Lane Gallery and Irish Museum of Modern Art. However, there is another side to Dublin’s art scene, one run by a small group of passionate and knowledgeable people known as gallerists.
Hidden away in the midst of Dublin’s bustle, you might unknowingly pass by one of the commercial galleries that call Dublin City home. These galleries are discreetly placed in tucked-away Georgian buildings, on first floors, in basements, modern office building retail spaces, and even one on the top floor of a shopping centre. What all these galleries have in common is a shared passion for contemporary art and a deep commitment to promoting and nurturing the careers of Irish artists. Commercial galleries in Dublin represent hundreds of Irish and international artists, are free to enter, welcoming to visitors and gallerists are keen to chat with anyone who comes looking for a greater insight into the art on display.
(Image courtesy of the artist and Solomon Fine Art)
The Contemporary Art Gallery Association is an alliance of ten of Dublin’s leading commercial galleries who have joined forces to collaborate with and support each other. They want to share artworks with visitors, and to spread the message that commercial galleries are not only free to visit but also offer a unique opportunity to invest in and own art that you love.
Dublin Gallery Weekend is the first significant initiative of the Contemporary Art Gallery Association, aimed at bringing more focus to visual art in the city. Over the weekend of 10th – 12th November, we have put together a special program of exhibitions, receptions, late openings, artist talks, specially curated tours, celebrations, and more. The goal is to engage both new and curious visitors and seasoned art lovers, who are well-versed in visiting museums and galleries. The weekend is an opportunity for visitors to meet artists and gallerists, learn more about the art work through talks and tours, and embark on a journey through Dublin’s art scene.
(Image courtesy of the artist and Molesworth Gallery)
Following the success of Gallery Weekends in Berlin, London, and Barcelona, the Dublin version promises to be a fun and engaging weekend of free to attend art events designed to expand upon and illuminate exhibitions from leading Irish and international artists including Callum Innes, Gottfried Helnwein, Richard Gorman, Richard Proffitt, Scott Lyall, Eilis O’Connell, Laurence Riddell, John Doherty, Gabhann Dunne, and David Fox.
To make this event accessible and enjoyable for everyone, the Contemporary Art Gallery Association has launched a new website. This website not only features the extensive program of events but also provides a map to help visitors navigate the city and discover the hidden gems of Dublin's art scene.
So, mark your calendar for November 10th – 12th, and be prepared to be inspired and impressed by the galleries, the art, and the stories that make Dublin's art scene come alive.
We are inviting everyone to come and be part of a celebration of creativity and artistic talent at Dublin Gallery Weekend, where art is not just admired; it's embraced and encouraged.
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Find out more about Dublin Gallery Weekend and its participating galleries here.
