National Gallery mounts exhibition to celebrate Watercolour Society of Ireland
"150: The Watercolour Society of Ireland's Exhibitions"

Press Release, September 2004

The Watercolour Society of Ireland evolved in the late 19th century from an amateur drawing society set up in Lismore, Co. Waterford. Since its foundation there have been over a thousand members of the society, many of whom have made a valuable contribution to the history of Irish art and the promotion of works on paper.

This exhibition celebrates 150 years of the Watercolour Society of Ireland's annual shows and will include over 40 works highlighting some of the best examples of work by past members. Among the familiar names represented are Rose Barton, Harry Clarke, Letitia Hamilton, Jack Hanlon, Mainie Jellett, Kitty Wilmer O'Brien, and Anne Yeats. The exhibits are drawn from the Gallery's permanent collection as well as loans from public and private collections in Ireland. An illustrated catalogue will accompany the show.

The exhibition will be on display in the Print Gallery from 6 October until 12 December. Admission is free. In November, Patricia Butler and Nancy Larchet will give illustrated talks on the Watercolour Society's Exhibitions.

For further information, contact: Valerie Keogh / Bill Maxwell
Press & Communications Office
National Gallery of Ireland
Telephone (01) 661 5133
Email press@ngi.ie