35 YEARS OF ART EXHIBITION: GERARD BYRNE STUDIO | DUBLIN

Over three decades later, her words prove prophetic. Byrne has become Ireland’s leading modern Impressionist, and this year, we celebrate 35 years of his remarkable journey as a practicing artist.

 This exhibition includes recent paintings that represent the culmination of 35 years of painting: vibrant plein air, dynamic botanical and figurative works, iconic Irish seascapes, and serene still-lifes. On view for the first time since ‘89, three early paintings: Wilde Flowers, Kitchen Interior and Miss Martin’s Apple-tree. 

Gerard Byrne | Wild Flowers and Kitchen Interior, 1989

Byrne has been painting plein air in Dublin since the start of his career, keeping record of a city that has continued to inspire and shape his practice. In the late 80’s, when Byrne was living in the Liberties, he painted Open Window, capturing the rooftops and backyards of the place he called home. In Stairs’ account, it was his first attempt at immersing himself in his subject and suggested a yearning to go out and paint among the people and amidst the landscapes. This yearning has come to define his unique artistic approach. 

In the early 90’s, Byrne was drawn to St. Stephens Green, jumping the railing to paint before the city rose. He also painted on location at nightclubs, capturing the city after dark. Over the years, he repeatedly visited iconic spots such as the Shelbourne Hotel, Café en Seine, the coastline of South Dublin with its Martello Towers, and the National Botanic Gardens, capturing these cherished locations from various perspectives and across seasons.

Gerard Byrne | Gerard Byrne Studio, Dublin, 2024, phot. Marc O'Sullivan

Throughout his career, he traveled the world, recording Parisian summers, London bridges and New York rooftops, but he always returned to Dublin as a central subject of his work. 35 years later, the walls of Gerard Byrne Studio proudly display the fruit of an impressive career.