Art Galleries in and near Sneem

Brushwood Studios

The home of four of Ireland's most talented fine artists - M A Muller - Jo-Anne Yelen - Pam Muller and Diana Muller ... more

Ireland's artistic heritage is rich, and this is reflected in the world class galleries that can be visited across the country. Hours can be spent exploring Ireland's wonderful art museums, appreciating the incredible range of works from both Irish and international artists, which include both historic masterpieces and cutting-edge modern works. You can see significant works by some of the world's most influential artists, or you may even discover a local Irish artist whose unique work captivates you.

Dublin is the best destination for art lovers, with several superb galleries cementing its reputation as a world-class cultural centre. The National Gallery features an impressive 13,000 works of art, with both Irish and European masterpieces. The Irish artists on show include James Barry, Nathaniel Hone, William Orpen, Roderic O'Conor and Louis le Brocquy, while famous paintings by masters such as Caravaggio, Vermeer, Goya and Picasso also crowd the galleries. As if that isn't enough to keep you spellbound for hours, the gallery is also home to the National Portrait Collection, and hosts special exhibitions throughout the year.

Admirers of contemporary art should not miss the Irish Museum of Modern Art, which displays top contemporary Irish and international art reflecting the latest and most exciting art trends. The museum is housed in the magnificent 17th century Royal Hospital Building, with a formal garden and medieval burial grounds. They concentrate on building up a collection of contemporary art by living artists, and also have an excellent representative collection of art from 1940 onwards. Several visiting exhibitions and events during the year means there's always something interesting to see at the Museum of Modern Art.

The centre of everything artistic in Dublin is without a doubt Temple Bar, the city's designated Cultural Quarter. There are many contemporary arts and cultural centres throughout the area's charming cobbled streets, and one leading venue is the Temple Bar Galleries and Studios, which hosts a programme of contemporary Irish and international art, providing a showcase for some of the most talented and innovative artists in the world. The centre includes a gallery, and 30 artists' studios, where an amazing variety of media are used in creations, including photography, video, sound, sculpture, print-making and painting

Dublin is really a treasure trove of art, both for the collector and the admirer: there are countless small art galleries dotted all over Dublin exhibiting interesting and appealing works for every taste.

The rest of Ireland does not disappoint in terms of opportunities to see some brilliant artworks. King House, an 18th century mansion in Boyle, is home to the Boyle Civic Collection, one of the best collections of contemporary Irish paintings and sculpture in the country, with an ever-expanding permanent display of 150 works by talented Irish artists.

Head north to Belfast to view the fine art collection of the Ulster Museum. This art gallery houses a variety of British and international gems, including works by famous English painter J.M.W Turner, and masterpieces by illustrious Ulster artists like Sir John Lavery. The Museum also features a unique collection of “applied art”, in which everyday items have been transformed into beautiful artworks

The Hunt Museum in Limerick is definitely a must-see gallery for its superb collection featuring over 2000 works of arts and antiquities. Housed in an 18th century Custom House, the collection features fascinating objects from the Celtic past as well as precious pieces like the Leonardo da Vinci horse, the Mary Queen of Scots cross and a unique display of silver artefacts. Paintings in the collection include treasured works by Renoir, Picasso and Gauguin.

Also in Limerick is the unique National Self Portrait Collection, made up of a wonderful range of work from nearly 100 artists. While most of the self-portraits are contemporary, they also include some older works, such as the 1790 self-portrait by landscape artist John Butts. Other famous Irish artists represented include well-known 19th century landscape painter James Arthur O'Connor and 20th century portrait and still life painter James Sleator. The works on display are created in a variety of techniques, including oil, watercolous, ceramics, collage, prints and stained glass, and there is an impressive sculpture section.

Visitors will find an amazing variety of art to admire in Ireland, particularly with regards to creative contemporary works. Whatever your artistic taste, don't miss Ireland's incredible and unique art galleries.