Ireland's art: the most popular galleries in Dublin
June 11, 2025
Dublin, Ireland's capital, is not only a city full of history and tradition, but also a vibrant center of contemporary art. Dublin's art galleries offer a fascinating journey through Irish culture, from classic works of the masters to avant-garde installations by young artists. In this article, we'll take you on a fascinating journey through Dublin's most popular art galleries, which are a must-see for any art lover visiting this beautiful city. Together, we will discover why Dublin is considered one of the most important art centers in Europe and what makes the galleries here so special. Get ready for an inspiring tour through the world of Irish art that is sure to leave you with unforgettable impressions and enrich your artistic horizons.
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Pearls of Irish art: the National Gallery of Ireland and Hugh Lane Gallery
Beginning our artistic tour of Dublin, we can't leave out two of the most important institutions: The National Gallery of Ireland and the Hugh Lane Gallery. These two galleries are the cornerstones of Dublin's art scene and are a must-see for any art lover.
The National Gallery of Ireland, located in Merrion Square W, is a true treasure trove of Irish and European art. This impressive gallery, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5, offers visitors a remarkable collection of artworks, from the Middle Ages to the present day. Of particular note, admission to the main part of the museum is free, making art accessible to all. Visitors can admire works by such masters as Vermeer, Caravaggio, Rembrandt and Picasso, as well as a rich collection of Irish paintings.
One of the National Gallery of Ireland's greatest strengths is its diversity. As one reviewer noted: 'a free, beautiful collection of paintings, the most valuable are on the 2nd floor, they have famous painters: Rembrandt, Cranach, Vermeer, Piccasso,Monet, Fillipino Lippi, Caravaggio, Zurbaran, El Grecco, Fra Angelica, Murillo, Velazquez,Goya, Turner.' This impressive list of names shows how rich the gallery's collection is.
In contrast, the Hugh Lane Gallery, located in Charlemont House on N Parnell Square, offers a slightly different perspective on the art world. This gallery, with a rating of 4.5, specializes in contemporary art and is particularly noted for its collection of Irish 20th century paintings. One of the most interesting exhibits here is the recreated studio of Francis Bacon, one of the most important Irish painters of the 20th century.
Hugh Lane Gallery is also famous for hosting the Sunday Noon Concerts series, which attracts music and art lovers. As one visitor noted: 'Very good concerts in the Sunday Noon Concerts series. Only you better be much ahead of time because you might run out of seats.
Comparing the two galleries, it's worth noting that the National Gallery of Ireland offers a broader cross-section through art history, while the Hugh Lane Gallery focuses more on contemporary and Irish art. The National Gallery is larger and may require more time to visit, but Hugh Lane Gallery offers a more intimate and intimate experience.
Both galleries are easily accessible and located in the center of Dublin, making them ideal starting points for artistic exploration of the city. Whether you're a fan of classical painting or fascinated by contemporary art, these two galleries are sure to meet your expectations and leave an unforgettable experience.
Exploring smaller galleries: The Doorway Gallery and The Green Gallery
After visiting Dublin's two main galleries, it's time to delve into the world of smaller but equally fascinating art spaces. The Doorway Gallery and The Green Gallery are perfect examples of how diverse and dynamic Dublin's art scene is.
The Doorway Gallery, located at 24 Frederick St S, is a true gem among Dublin's galleries. With an impressive rating of 4.8, this gallery stands out for its approach to presenting contemporary art. As one visitor noted: 'The gallery showcases an impressive collection of artwork by both Irish-born and resident artists, with each work reflecting exceptional talent and creativity.'
The Doorway Gallery is renowned for its commitment to supporting young, promising artists. It holds regular solo exhibitions, which are an excellent opportunity to meet new talent. What's more, the gallery offers the opportunity to purchase artwork, which is a great option for collectors or those looking for unique Dublin souvenirs.
In contrast, The Green Gallery, located in Stephen's Green Shopping Center, offers a slightly different experience. With a rating of 4.8, this gallery combines elements of a traditional art gallery with a modern, retail environment. As one reviewer described: 'What a wonderful art gallery. So welcoming with an amazing variety of choices. Brightly lit and an exceptional location.''
The Green Gallery specializes in showcasing contemporary Irish art, offering a wide selection of paintings, sculptures and prints. Its location in a popular shopping center makes it easily accessible and attracts a diverse audience, from serious collectors to casual visitors.
When comparing the two galleries, there are a few key differences worth noting. The Doorway Gallery offers a more traditional art gallery experience, with an emphasis on one-on-one exhibitions and direct contact with artists. The Green Gallery, due to its location, is more dynamic in nature and can attract a wider audience.
In terms of accessibility, The Doorway Gallery is located in a historic part of the city, which may be attractive to tourists visiting Dublin. The Green Gallery, being part of a shopping center, is easily accessible and may be ideal for those who want to combine shopping with an artistic experience.
Both galleries offer the opportunity to purchase artwork, but The Doorway Gallery may be a better choice for serious collectors, while The Green Gallery may attract those looking for more affordable artwork or souvenirs.
Regardless of your choice, both The Doorway Gallery and The Green Gallery offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of contemporary Irish art and are an excellent complement to a visit to Dublin's larger, more established galleries.
Unique art experiences: Olivier Cornet Gallery
To conclude our art tour of Dublin, look out for the Olivier Cornet Gallery, a place that offers a unique and more intimate experience of contemporary art.
Olivier Cornet Gallery, located at 3 Denmark Street Great, stands out for its approach to art presentation. With a rating of 4.8, the gallery is highly regarded by artists and art lovers alike. As one visitor noted: 'A jewel in the heart of the city! An excellent small gallery with high quality contemporary artworks. The exhibition I had the pleasure of viewing was well displayed and curated.''
What sets Olivier Cornet Gallery apart is its commitment to promoting young, promising Irish artists. The gallery regularly holds thematic exhibitions that provide a deeper understanding of contemporary trends in Irish art. As another reviewer described, 'Olivier is a passionate person. He is known for his curatorial work, which is what makes the gallery so special. The thematic exhibitions of his artists are unique and very interesting.
When comparing the Olivier Cornet Gallery to the previously discussed galleries, there are several important differences. Unlike the National Gallery of Ireland or Hugh Lane Gallery, Olivier Cornet Gallery offers a more intimate and personal experience. The gallery is smaller, which allows for a more intensive experience with art and often offers the opportunity for direct contact with the artists.
Compared to The Doorway Gallery or The Green Gallery, Olivier Cornet Gallery seems more focused on the curatorial aspect of art presentation. The exhibitions are carefully planned and often have a deeper context or theme, which may be of particular interest to those seeking a deeper understanding of contemporary Irish art.
In terms of accessibility, the Olivier Cornet Gallery is located in the city center, not far from other tourist attractions, making it easily accessible to visitors to Dublin. However, it is worth keeping in mind that due to its more intimate nature, it may be a less obvious choice for casual passersby.
Olivier Cornet Gallery also offers the opportunity to purchase artwork, which may appeal to collectors looking for works by emerging Irish artists. This is an excellent opportunity to discover new talent and invest in contemporary art.
To conclude our tour of Dublin's art galleries, it is worth noting that each of the galleries discussed offers a unique experience. From the impressive collections of the National Gallery of Ireland, to the contemporary works at Hugh Lane Gallery, to the intimate spaces of The Doorway Gallery, The Green Gallery and Olivier Cornet Gallery, Dublin offers a wealth of artistic experiences for any art lover.
Whether you are interested in classical painting, contemporary art, or want to discover new talents in the Irish art scene, Dublin is sure to satisfy your artistic desires. Each of these galleries contributes to the city's rich and diverse art scene, making Dublin one of the most interesting destinations for art lovers in Europe.
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