Originally opened in 1988, the Kerlin Gallery stands as a testament to Dublin’s vibrant contemporary art scene. This gallery is more than just a space. It is a crucible where Irish and international artists converge. It is a place where trends in contemporary art are reflected.
The Kerlin Gallery is located on Anne’s Lane off South Anne Street. The gallery’s current space was designed in 1994 by architect John Pawson. The Kerlin Gallery has 3600 square feet of gallery space spread over two floors.
David Fitzgerald, Darragh Hogan, and John Kennedy are the directors of the Kerlin Gallery. They steer its course through the ever-changing currents of the art world. Their co-ownership with Paddy McKillen adds another layer to the gallery’s unique story.
In 2015, Artnet listed the Kerlin Gallery as one of Europe’s Top 55 Galleries. This recognition underscores its importance on the international stage. The Kerlin Gallery has built an international reputation over three and a half decades. It offers sustained representation for leading contemporary artists.
The Kerlin Gallery programs eight exhibitions each year. These are predominantly solo exhibitions by gallery artists. However, there are occasional curated group exhibitions. The Kerlin Gallery also has solo exhibitions by invited artists.
Some artists have had multiple solo exhibitions at the Kerlin Gallery. Sean Scully has exhibited seven times since 1994. Dorothy Cross has exhibited nine times since 1990. Mark Francis has exhibited ten times since 1995. Willie Doherty has also exhibited ten times since 1995. Elizabeth Magill has exhibited eight times since 1989.
The Kerlin Gallery also introduces new artists. Ailbhe Ní Bhriain had her first solo exhibition in 2023. Nathalie Du Pasquier and Zhou Li had theirs in 2022. Gerard Byrne had his in 2018.
Curated group exhibitions have included “HERE COMES LOVE” in 2023. “Face to Face” in 2018 was curated by Hendrik Driesson. He is the founding director of De Pont Museum of Contemporary Art. “Architecture Schmarchitecture” in 2003 featured Isa Genzken and others. “Newfound Landscape” in 1998 featured Uta Barth and others. In 2019, the Kerlin Gallery organized Shadowplay. This exhibition included Willie Doherty, Aleana Egan, and others. The title comes from a Joy Division song.
In 2021, the Kerlin Gallery presented a solo exhibition by Lawrence Weiner. Other invited artists have included Andy Warhol, Hiroshi Sugimoto, and Richard Hamilton.
The Kerlin Gallery is also involved in publishing artist publications. These include monographs on Merlin James and William McKeown in 2023. Isabel Nolan was featured in 2020 and Brian Maguire in 2018.
In 2018, the Kerlin Gallery donated works to the Irish Museum of Modern Art. This act reflects its commitment to the cultural landscape of Ireland. The Kerlin Gallery continues to shape and enrich the world of contemporary art. It is a Dublin landmark that fosters creativity. The Kerlin Gallery supports artistic expression.