The Best Contemporary Art Galleries in Dublin
Although it’s perhaps best known as a city steeped in history, Dublin is also home to a thriving contemporary art scene. This selection of spaces offer a range of exhibitions to encourage gallery-goers and support emerging talent. Institutional and artist-run, they focus on exposing visitors to an innovative, challenging and engaging contemporary visual art practice.
The Molesworth Gallery
Art Gallery
Art fans visiting Dublin will find the small but mighty Molesworth Gallery near Leinster House. Spread over two floors in a Georgian townhouse, this modern art gallery has a rich and diverse exhibition programme, hosting an average of eight solo shows and two group exhibitions annually. Founded in 1999, the gallery represents around 20 up-and-coming and established Irish artists including award-winning painters Catherine Barron and Shane Berkery. The first floor usually features a changing display of painting, sculpture and prints from their eminent collection, and is well worth a visit.
Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane
Art Gallery, Museum
Named after the notable Irish art collector and public figure, Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane was established in 1998 and continues Lane’s legacy of celebrating Irish art. The gallery is located in Charlemont House on Parnell Square and the unique architecture of the venue contrasts the surrounding Georgian architecture. Important aspects of the gallery are Irish artist Sean Scully’s bequest of his works, and the re-creation of the studio of the iconic Francis Bacon, as well as Bacon’s archive of books, slashed canvas, material and collection of photographs.
Gallery of Photography Ireland
Art Gallery
The home of digital and film photography in Ireland, Gallery of Photography Ireland came into being in 1978 and was moved to its current location in Dublin City’s Meeting House Square in 1995. This purpose-built space has fully-fitted darkrooms, digital imaging facilities, and hosts workshops for budding photographers to develop their skills, but the main draw for art lovers is the gallery. It organises a wide variety of rotating, and free, exhibitions that showcase and spotlight the work of many Irish and global photographers. As well as hosting exhibitions of big names, like Steve McCurry (known for his Afghan Girl photograph featured on the front cover of National Geographic in June 1985), this gallery also nurtures homegrown talent with its graduate exhibitions.
Kerlin Gallery
Art Gallery
Founded in 1998, Kerlin Gallery has developed a reputation as one of Ireland’s leading contemporary art galleries. Designed by architect John Pawson, this two-floor space can be found in the heart of Dublin city near Grafton Street. Highlights of its past exhibitions include an Andy Warhol retrospective, numerous solo Sean Scully shows, and an exhibition of sculptures and photographs by Irish artist Dorothy Cross that explore the connection between humans and the natural world. The gallery has also featured a number of artists who have been shortlisted for the coveted Turner Prize, and has supported artists abroad at the Venice Biennale. With a growing list of important artists involved with this venue, Kerlin Gallery is essential to Dublin and Ireland’s contemporary artistic sphere.
Project Arts Centre
Art Gallery
Project Arts Centre started from humble beginnings as a one day-event before rapidly evolving into a three-week festival taking place at the Gate Theatre in 1966. Its popularity exposed the need for a permanent gallery space dedicated to the contemporary arts in Ireland. Since 2000, the centre has done just that, with two performance spaces and a gallery located in the central Temple Bar area. Since its conception Project Arts Centre has become a leader in contemporary artistic practice in Dublin and in Ireland, acting as a launching pad for many famous artists across mediums including painter Gerard Byrne and Dublin band U2. In addition to over 600 events and six exhibitions per year, Project Arts Centre also hosts a number of local and international festivals, including Dublin Writers’ Festival, Dublin Theatre Festival and Dublin Fringe Festival.
Irish Museum of Modern Art
Building, Museum
The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) is located in a renovated 17th-century hospital (with a formal facade and a large elegant courtyard, the building’s style is based on Les Invalides in Paris), resulting in a unique clash between contemporary cultures and historical residues. The hospital was restored in 1984 and officially opened as the Irish Museum of Modern Art in May 1991. IMMA hosts a wide range of regularly changing exhibitions, from celebrated Irish designers such as Eileen Gray, to international artists like Philippe Parreno. More recent shows include Second Sight, a collection of 550 photographs created over the last 20 years by Dr David Kronn, which were a gift to IMMA. Much like Dublin itself, IMMA is a cultural fusion; on one hand celebrating past artistic achievements, and on the other pushing boundaries by promoting cutting-edge contemporary art.
RUA RED
Art Gallery
RUA RED defines itself as the South Dublin Arts Centre and is home to all types of art aimed at all members of the community, reflecting the diversity of Dublin’s south. Located in the emerging cultural quarter of Tallaght, just outside Dublin’s city centre, RUA RED’s artistic programme aims to inspire and engage local audiences as well as courting international visitors. The venue collaborates with local festivals and organisations to create a varied range of events and programmes, but also organises visual art exhibitions in its two galleries, theatrical productions, live music events, film screenings, performance pieces and dance recitals. With plenty to do and see, RUA RED is worth the excursion from Dublin city centre.
The Douglas Hyde Gallery
Art Gallery
In the years after becoming independent from Trinity College Dublin in 1984, the Douglas Hyde was one of the only publicly funded artistic spaces in Ireland that focused solely on contemporary art. Nowadays, The Douglas Hyde singles out artists who have been marginalised or overlooked, both at home and abroad, to feature as part of their exhibition programme. This gallery punches above its weight, with two small but inviting spaces. The smaller second space, which was added in 2001 and has since won a number of architectural awards, regularly hosts ethnographic and craft exhibitions. In addition to these, the gallery hosts music events and produces a number of publications, a significant contribution to Dublin’s contemporary art scene for such a small space.
Pallas Projects
Art Gallery
This artist-run organisation was founded in 1996 with the intention of collaborating with artists, curators and writers to engage and develop Irish contemporary art. Providing studio space and exhibition opportunities for Dublin-based and international artists, Pallas Projects provides a source of constant, revolutionary artistic production. They’re known for their offsite exhibitions and projects, which have included a four-year exhibition programme in a semi-derelict block of council flats, a white cube space in a former milking parlour, and collaborative projects with other major galleries. The project is now based at a long-term studio and project space in The Coombe.
Temple Bar Gallery and Studios
Art Gallery
Established in 1983 by a group of artists and administrators, this was one of the first DIY artist-centred initiatives in Ireland. This group was housed in a rented, disused shirt factory that extended through a block on Temple Bar towards the quays. As Temple Bar became a cultural and tourist hub, the gallery space contributed to and developed with the area’s rejuvenation during the 1990s. The shirt factory received a major facelift, with 30 artist studios and a sizeable gallery on the ground floor, complete with large windows to maximise light and the sense of space. Temple Bar Gallery + Studios officially took occupation of the building in 1994. Thirty years since its inception, TBG+S continues to support upcoming artists as well as connecting the public with radical Irish contemporary art, with exhibitions of varying themes and media, from performance art to painting and installations.
Eleanor Cunningham contributed additional reporting to this article.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.
KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
Read Next
Places to Stay
The Most Family-Friendly Hotels in Dublin, Ireland
Places to Stay
Hip Apartments in Dublin You'll Want to Call Home
Places to Stay
The Best Hotels with Pools in Dublin
Places to Stay
The Best Spa Hotels in Dublin, Ireland
See & Do
The Best Outdoor Activities in and Around Dublin
See & Do
Weekend Trips and Getaways From Dublin
See & Do
The 5 Best Day Trips From Dublin
See & Do
The 5 Best Tours and Excursions From Dublin
See & Do
The Best Beaches Near Dublin, Ireland
See & Do
Discover Dublin’s Most Unique Experiences
See & Do
Experience a Different Side of Dublin’s Vibrant Culture With These Activities
Music
How To Enjoy An Authentic Irish Trad Session
X
