SPIRIT OF PLACE EXHIBITION | 19 April - 25 May 2024

SPIRIT OF PLACE EXHIBITION: GERARD BYRNE STUDIO | RANELAGH, DUBLIN

19 April - 25 May 2024

From Paris, April 1874 to Dublin, April 2024.

Exhibition and Sale of paintings by Ireland's foremost Modern Impressionist — Gerard Byrne — presented in celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the first exhibition of Impressionism. An outstanding collection of Byrne's 50 urban-focused plein air artworks showcasing the architectural heritage of locations including Dublin, London, Brighton and Paris.

It is exactly 150 years since the first Impressionist exhibition opened in Paris on 15 April 1874 at the studio of the photographer Nadar on 35 Boulevard des Capucines. This year, 2024, marks its 150th anniversary, with tributes taking place in many galleries around the world, most notably a major exhibition of 130 works titled Paris 1874. Inventing Impressionism at the Musée d’Orsay.

Ireland’s Modern Impressionist, Gerard Byrne, presents Spirit of Place in celebration of this ground-breaking event. The Impressionist movement’s founders — Monet, Renoir, Degas, Morisot, Pissarro, Sisley and Cézanne — advocated painting outdoors, en plein air, as this is termed, exposed to natural light and surrounded by the sights and sounds of the real world, as opposed to the far more restrictive conditions of the studio. The ideals and principles by which the Impressionists worked are the identical ones that Gerard Byrne has been using throughout the whole of his 35 year professional career.

The fifty stunning and carefully selected paintings offered for sale in this unique exhibition titled Spirit of Place were produced by Byrne en plein air over the last decade in locations as varied as Dalkey, Dublin, London, Brighton and Paris. His talent is truly remarkable as is his ability to paint light-filled street scenes and cityscapes entirely outdoors, sensitively depicting precise architectural detail and perspective and capturing atmosphere with a touch that is almost magical.

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"there is a magic involved in painting outdoors"

— Gerard Byrne

Highlighting his expert treatment of architectural heritage, his uniquely atmospheric street scenes and cityscapes, and accompanied by a fully- illustrated 150 page hardcover catalogue with complementary texts by author Susan Stairs, this exhibition affirms Byrne’s undeniable talent and demonstrates how, as a contemporary exponent of Impressionism, he is keeping alive the traditions and principles of a group whose innovation and bravery transformed the history of art.

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As an immersive art experience, this is an exhibition not to be missed. Strong sunlight illuminating Georgian and Victorian architecture and throwing dramatic shadows across the paths of city streets; reflections wavering in the waters of the Grand Canal, the Thames or the Seine; pink cherry blossoms caught at their peak; busy cafes on a warm afternoon ... Spirit of Place is a must-see.

In a world of turmoil, we remain convinced that it is the artist’s essential duty to seek out beauty and to emphasise and elevate all that is good, for no better reason than to bring pleasure and joy. We hope that with this exhibition, Spirit of Place, we will do just that.

Exhibition Opening Hours:

Monday — by appointment

Tuesday — Saturday 11 - 6pm

Sunday 12 - 5pm

Exclusive out of hours private viewing on request.

CLOSED May Bank Holiday Weekend

Saturday 4th May — Monday 6th May

ADMISSION FREE

Private Guided Tours exploring Spirit of Place exhibitioN

with Sylwia Janik, Tate Modern London Guide Alumnus

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Sat & Sun | 27 — 28 April at 12pm

Sat & Sun | 18 — 19 May at 12pm

Saturday | 18 May at 3pm - just added!

Saturday | 25 May at 12pm

It is a real pleasure for Gerard Byrne Studio to collaborate with Sylwia Janik, a Tate Modern London guide alumnus and to offer five open to the public guided visits inside the studio and gallery. Treat yourself with a gift of time with the beauty and charm of Byrne's art. Get transported to the magical spots of Dublin, London, Paris and more. Relax and unwind, sunny weather guaranteed! Explore the Spirit of Place in a guided exhibition tour with our experienced and passionate art guide. Each tour ends with an exclusive Q&A session with the artist - Gerard Byrne.

Immerse yourself in the world of fine art with our expert guide leading the way. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity to delve into the beauty and creativity of Ireland's foremost Modern Impressionist and book your place now!

Tour duration — 1hr Q&A

Tour capacity — 15 people

Admission — FREE, however booking is essential as places are limited

You can reserve your place via:

email: hello@gerardbyrneartist.com
call or WhatsApp message: 086 8321094
Eventbrite: button below

RESERVE YOUR PLACE

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