Upon opening her new gallery space in Dublin, Denise Donnelly reflects on 25 years’ ownership of The Doorway Gallery, and the future of the industry …
Who or what kickstarted your interest in art, and how did this evolve? My mother is an artist, and she had always struggled with her career throughout her younger years. To be an artist in those days was never really accepted or viewed as a real profession, especially for female artists. She started selling her art on Merrion Square in Dublin and I remember, from the age of 13, visiting galleries and selling her work at a Blackrock market stall. This was the catalyst that ignited my interest in art today.
What have been some of the milestones you’re most proud of? At the start of my career as a gallerist, the challenge to show at international art fairs was personally the most daunting decision I have undertaken. The risk was so great, regarding the massive expenditure involved, and also the risk to my reputation as a professional gallery. I had to acquire a substantial loan from the Credit Union to support the endeavour. Fortunately, the risk was ultimately rewarded, with the UK fair being hugely successful. Based on my maiden international show, I enjoyed continued success by extending my attendance to six fairs, yearly, throughout the UK.
International fairs are extremely hard work, but I really felt it was such a major accomplishment for the gallery, as well as artists. The gallery gets it recognition and artists get exposure to a broader market. As an added consequence of the successful fairs, my artists have shown their appreciation and loyalty to the gallery. We have since formed close working relationships, and on the back of extensive promotion it’s immensely gratifying to see them grow and progress throughout their artistic careers.
How have Irish art buyers changed over the past two decades? Irish art buyers have become more informed, confident and internationally aware. There’s a noticeable shift from purely decorative purchases to being longterm investments. Digital platforms and art fairs have also broadened access, making buyers more curious and less cautious of risk than they were 20 years ago.
What are some of the challenges and opportunities facing new artists today? New artists face real challenges around visibility, financial sustainability and standing out in an oversaturated digital landscape. However, there are significant opportunities too – direct access to audiences through social media, international exposure without relocation and a growing appetite for authentic, socially engaged work. Those who combine strong practice with professionalism and consistency can build momentum faster than ever before.
‘The Quiet Montain’ by Padraig McCaul
What is the role of galleries in nurturing emerging talent? Galleries play a vital role as both advocates and mentors. Beyond exhibition opportunities, we help artists refine their practice, position their work in the market, build collector relationships and navigate the commercial realities of a career in art. A good gallery will offer the artist credibility and longterm support, allowing them the space to develop while protecting the integrity of their work.
Tell us about the gallery move and some of the new exhibitions to look forward to this year? We’re so excited to showcase our new gallery space in Wicklow Street, Dublin, spread across four levels. We’re retaining the lease for our original premises on South Frederick Street, primarily for solo exhibitions. The majority of our artists will host solo shows this year, and we’ll also be showing a continuous number of large group shows at the Wicklow Street gallery.
There’s wonderful variety of painting styles on display that appeals to everyone as lovers of art, so it’s ideal for both commercial and domestic buyers. We look forward to Lucy Doyle’s and Dave West’s submissions, and we also have some new artist additions that will be launched in tandem with our established artists.
Lastly, we’re excited to take part at the popular Art Evolve and Art Source fairs at the RDS later this year. @thedoorwaygallery
SEE MORE: Artistic License – Mary Moorkens
