The inaugural Art Evolve fair will bring together leading contemporary galleries and artists for an immersive experience …
John Fitzgerald, ‘Life and Everything in-between’
Running from April 4 to 6 at RDS Dublin, visitors have a chance to see work by seventy galleries and artists. “Art Evolve is the ideal opportunity for collectors and the culturally curious to experience some of the best contemporary art in Ireland, and to get expert advice and guidance from leading galleries,” explains show organiser, Patrick O’Sullivan.
Tara Murphy of Solomon Gallery says to expect a “greatest hits” with a range of price points to suit different tastes, while founder and director of Hillsboro Fine Art, John Daly describes it as “a one-stop shop” to take in a grand sweep of the city’s contemporary art scene, all under one roof.
Patrick O’Reilly, ‘Against all Odds’
One of the highlights will be an installation by street artist Maser, showcasing various chapters of his working life, and offering visitors the chance to engage with the artist. Maser’s “Creative Convergence” lends itself to wider audience participation, and is part of an interactive experience that includes artist talks, entertainment, and cocktails.
All mediums will be exhibited, such as works by renowned Irish sculptors Eilis O’Connell, and Rowan Gillespie – famous for his ‘Famine’ group on the quays and ‘Blackrock Dolmen’ in Dublin, ‘WB Yeats’ in Sligo, and John Behan’s iconic ‘Famine Ships’ in bronze.
Kerlin Gallery will present a range of limited edition prints, drawings, and paintings including works by Dorothy Cross, Sean Scully and Richard Gorman.
Hillsboro will showcase work by renowned Italian artist Sandro Chia, whose work is included in private collections around the world.
The Oliver Sears Gallery is presenting works by Donald Teskey, famous for his land and seascapes, as well as pieces by painter Hughie O’Donoghue.
Solomon Gallery’s “salon-style” wall will feature a broad selection of affordable works, with prices starting from €195. Artists include Tom Climent, Eilis O’Connell, Corban Walker, Eamon Colman, Michael Wann, and Carol Hodder.
David French Le-Roy, ‘Glazeware and stilton’
Building on the success of Art Source – Ireland’s biggest art fairs in Dublin and Cork featuring hundreds of artists and galleries – this new event introduces a dedicated space for members of Ireland’s Contemporary Art Gallery Association. CAGA represents the country’s leading galleries: Solomon, Kerlin, Taylor, Green on Red, Molesworth, Oliver Sears, SO Fine Art, Olivier Cornet, and Hillsboro.
“Each gallery has a very diverse house ‘style’ – from cutting-edge contemporary to more traditional media – so this event is an opportunity for attendees to find a gallery that best suits their personal taste,” says Tara Murphy.
“Art Evolve also features numerous independent artists with their own booths, so I’m looking forward to discovering emerging talent not already on my radar.”
“It pains me that some people find galleries intimidating. We want as many people to see our exhibitions as possible. As CAGA members, we have decades of collective knowledge, and a real passion for offering guidance on artists’ work. You definitely don’t need to be an expert to appreciate art; simply visiting will help you develop your taste. And if you spend a bit of time building relationships with gallerists, or reading catalogues, this can really enhance your understanding of an artist’s vision and technique. We particularly encourage students and young visitors as introducing the next generation to the rewarding world of visual culture is essential.”
Ed Williamson, ‘The Belle of the Ball’
“Since the pandemic, the arts scene has struggled with less exhibition spaces, so these events need public support. It’s a great opportunity to meet Ireland’s best artists and gallerists in one location, so please pop by!”
Need to know: Adult tickets cost €10, children under 16 are free. For more information, visit www.artevolve.ie @artevolve.ie
