Guests gather for launch of stunning art exhibitions in Dungarvan
Friends and family at the launch of Gerhardt Gallagher's exhibition in Dungarvan, including his brother Len Gallagher (centre)
The Old Market House Arts Centre Dungarvan welcomed a full house of visitors, artists, family and friends for the reception of two significant exhibitions being held over the weekend, 'Mór Artists Collective: Beneath the Layer’ and ‘Gerhardt Gallagher: Bequest’,
This exhibition featuring works recently donated to Waterford by the prolific Waterford-born artist Gerhardt Gallagher, was officially opened by Cllr. Damien Geoghegan, Leas Cathaoirleach of the Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District.
Forester and artist Gerhardt Gallagher, who died on 2nd May 2024, was born in Waterford City in 1936.
His father, Roland, a dentist, fought in the War of Independence and Irish Civil War, while his mother, Lisa, witnessed the rise of fascism in her native Germany.
From childhood, Gerhardt had two passions: nature and art.
He spent hours at Waterford Docks, sketching boats, waves and seabirds.
Having attended De La Salle College he went on to study art in Waterford, NCAD and later in Airfield House and Black Church Print Studios, Dublin.
A renowned and dedicated Forester, Gerhardt’s visual art practice spanned over six decades, ranging from large scale abstract paintings, exquisite prints and drawings to detailed studies of nature, in particular his beloved trees.
Also featured in the Old Market House Arts Centre is the ‘Mór Artists Collective: Beneath the Layers’, an exhibition inspired by one of Ireland’s most unique and notably rich historical resources - The Fota House Wallpaper Collection.
Developed in partnership with Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens, over 30 artists across East Cork and West Waterford have responded in diverse media including painting, written work, collage, sound installation and more.
Mór Artists Collective is an artists-led membership organisation for artists living and working professionally in the visual, performing and literary arts in rural East Cork and West Waterford.
Both exhibitions continue at the Old Market House, Dungarvan until the end of September.
