Dispel seasonal affective disorder with some visual inspiration …
Constructed of discarded corrugated cardboard and cast in bronze, Tim Morris began building box cars during lockdown to convey a sense of “waiting”. He has since created over 200 of these unique toy-like sculptures that he brings together for his solo exhibition at Solomon Fine Art Dublin which runs until January 31.
There’s no stopping self-taught Irish artist Gerard Byrne who, at 67, has a new gallery in Dublin and two major solo shows in New York planned this year. Having operated out of his Ranelagh Gallery for the past eight years (now open by appointment only), his gallery on Trinity Street is housed in a 1909 historic building, formerly Hot Press Magazine. The space features seascapes shaped by years of experiencing the sea while working on Irish lighthouses, new still lifes, large-scale figurative works and cityscapes.
For some seasonal serotonin, pop into the National Gallery of Ireland’s popular (free) annual exhibition of watercolours by JMW Turner whose work features alongside artists that he inspired. These include works by 19th-century artists such as William Callow (1812-1908), John Faulkner (1835-1894) and Hercules Brabazon (1821-1906) whose colourful watercolours reflect Turner’s style and techniques. Prints by Irish artists Jennifer Lane and Niall Naessens also pay homage to Turner.
If in London, visit the Tate Modern where a joint exhibition offers an insight into Turner and his contemporary John Constable – both dramatically different yet celebrated for their legacy and impact.
While in the National Gallery, check out two new acquisitions in Room 21. Two of Irish artist Harry Clarke’s illustrations are now part of the national collection – Faust, 1924/25, and The Lady of the Decoration, 1914. The latter is a great example of Clarke’ s graphic work featuring characteristic fantastical figures, sophisticated decorative elements and vibrant colours. It seems certain that Clarke was inspired by a popular novel of the same name by Frances Little, first published in New York in 1907. The book recounts the experiences of a young woman travelling in Japan and outlines her journey to self-discovery. It complements his illustrations made for Harrap’s 1914 publication of Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales, which are already in the national collection.
There’s still time to see Belfast-born artist Colin Davidson’s exhibition “Stranger” at RHA Gallery. This innovative collection of three-dimensional works is the culmination of five year’s research and studio work by the artist. Davidson refers to these monumental figures as 3D paintings or “paintings you can walk around”. Not merely sculptures with painted surfaces, they appear as sculptures crafted from paint. They were made using a complex process of armature and maquette building, scanning, 3D printing and painting.
Siobhan McDonald’s exhibition “Passage”, opens at The LAB in Dublin on January 16, exploring waterways and the realities of rising sea levels. She explains, “Through an intertwining of painting, film and sound, the exhibition reflects my encounters with fragile landscapes and guides audiences through both real and imagined tidal worlds – including recently discovered shipwrecks in Dublin Port.” The exhibition includes a musical component developed in collaboration with acclaimed composer Mel Mercier, featuring a performance by sean-nós singer Caoimhe Flaherty.
Showcase Ireland at the RDS Dublin on January 18-20 is a chance to discover Irish designs from brands such as Rathbornes 1488, Torc, Molloy & Sons and Kerry Woollen Mills, or special journals in which to scribble from Muckross Bookbinding and Adelle Hickey. Also participating is artist Carmel Grant, known for her playful illustrations and bespoke caricatures, one of the Business of Craft Awards finalists.
If you’re interested in the art of calligraphy, Sarah O’Dea has two calligraphy workshops in The National Print Museum, beginning on January 25.
Daróg Wine Bar Galway has a joint exhibition by artists James Wellwood and Mary Moorkens, called “Between Two Fields”. Though working in different materials, both artists share a deep connection to the land. Wellwood’s paintings draw from his experience on his family’s farm, and he revisits familiar rural paths shaped by memory, time and belonging. Moorkens’ textile works use embroidery and vintage fabrics to explore folklore, wildlife and the quieter edges of Irish fields. They will be taking part in a panel conversation, Le Chéile, on January 26 with owner Edel Lukács. Tickets include a wine tasting and discount off artworks.
Abstract artist Philip Allen has been described by art critic John Yau as “one of the great painters of his generation” because of his refusal to settle into any one mode or style, resulting in paintings that are sculptural, optical and joyously excessive. His new exhibition “Deep Waiting” at Kerlin Gallery opens on January 31, comprising dense layers of acrylic and oil paint, with encrusted borders that frame spiralling motifs and kaleidoscopic colour sequences. Allen balances exuberance with control, humour with discipline, ornament with structure.
SEE MORE: Artistic License – Geraldine O’Neill
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