Art Appreciation
7th - 12th April
Embark on a captivating journey into the world of art with our Art Appreciation Midweek at Kelly’s. Join Karla Sanchez for an insightful tour of our Wonderful Art Collection, delving into the stories behind each masterpiece. Immerse yourself in the enchanting narratives of renowned artist Richard Malone as he shares his perspectives on the esteemed Eileen Grace Art Collection. Additionally, gain valuable insights from Barbara Dawson, offering a glimpse into the highly famous works of Andy Warhol. Elevate your appreciation for art as you engage with these passionate experts and discover the beauty that lies within each stroke and canvas.
RICHARD MALONE
Richard Malone, a talented Irish artist and designer hailing from Wexford, Ireland. His creative journey began with a focus on sculpture in Carmarthen, Wales, before making the move to Central Saint Martins to pursue fashion. Graduating in 2014, Richard was honoured with the prestigious LVMH Grand Prix scholarship. His debut collection not only opened the year’s BA Fashion press show but also clinched the Deutsche Bank Award for Fashion.
In 2017, Malone made history by being part of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) New York’s first fashion exhibition in over 60 years, Is Fashion Modern? This accomplishment solidified his place as one of the youngest artists ever added to the museum’s permanent collection.
Richard’s journey is marked by various accolades, including the British Fashion Council Fashion Trust and NEWGEN awards. He’s been twice nominated for the LVMH Prize, and in February 2020, he clinched the International Woolmark Prize. His ‘radically transparent’ working practice and innovative research approach earned praise from the panel of judges.
In 2021, Malone took on the role of curator for Making and Momentum: In Conversation with Eileen Gray, a thought-provoking touring exhibition designed to spark cross-generational dialogue in response to the influential Irish designer and architect. During this project, Richard rekindled his connection with the artist Alberto Giacometti, spending extended periods exploring the Giacometti Foundation’s retrospective, A Marvellous Reality, at the Grimaldi Forum, Monaco. Join us in celebrating the vibrant and diverse journey of Richard Malone in the world of art and design.
Monday 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.
KARLA SANCHEZ
Mexican-born Karla O’Connell is the chairwoman of the Wexford arts centre. The Wexford-based art historian has studied and worked in both her native Mexico and in the United States. She has worked in various roles, including art curator and teacher of art history.
Co-director of Blackbird Cultur-lab (creative cultural laboratory based within a working farm engaging in regenerative agriculture practices), Karla Sánchez, has worked as a curator, teacher, program officer, strategic planner, and artistic advisor. After studying an MA in Art History & Museum Studies (Texas Christian University) supported by a Fulbright grant, she did internships and worked at various museums both in Mexico and the USA (Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, the Art Institute of Chicago, Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso). Since her arrival in Ireland in 2004, she has been actively involved in the arts. She is interested in the environment, art education, the role of art in contemporary society, interdisciplinary collaborative practices, and existentialism.
Tuesday 11.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m.
BARBARA DAWSON
Dr. Barbara Dawson, a trailblazer in the Irish art world. Dawson graduated from University College Dublin in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree in history. Recognizing her significant contributions to the fine arts in 2010, she was honoured with a Doctor of Fine Arts degree from the National College of Art & Design (NCAD). Currently serving as an adjunct professor at the School of Art History and Cultural Policy, University College Dublin, she further solidified her impact by receiving the UCD Alumni Award in Arts & Humanities in 2019.
Dr. Dawson is not just an astute observer of the international contemporary art scene; she stands as the first female director of Dublin’s Hugh Lane Gallery. Her remarkable achievements make her one of the most significant figures in Irish art in recent decades. Leading transformative changes for the Hugh Lane Gallery, she is a staunch advocate for the visual arts in Ireland. Under her guidance, the gallery has expanded significantly to house new treasures, attracting visitors worldwide.
Barbara’s commitment to enriching the gallery’s collections, organizing diverse exhibitions, and fostering dynamic learning programs both internally and within communities has been unwavering. In 1998, she secured the gift of Francis Bacon’s Studio and Archive, relocating it from London to Dublin, where it opened to the public in 2001. As an adjunct professor at UCD’s School of Art History, Barbara also serves as a notable mentor to women making strides in other Irish museums. Join us in celebrating the impactful journey of Dr. Barbara Dawson in shaping the Irish art landscape.
Wednesday & Thursday 11.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m.