The Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Jimmy Deenihan, TD, announced that, following its success as the main venue for Dublin Contemporary 2011, the exhibition space at Earlsfort Terrace will be made available to the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) in 2012 during the closure of the main building at Kilmainham.
“I am delighted at the warm public response to DC11”, the Minister said. “In addition to producing a lively debate on the nature and scope of contemporary art, it highlighted the degree to which the work of Irish artists can more than hold its own in an international context, while at the same time creating many valuable links with artists and curators worldwide.”
The Minister went on to say that the project had also led to the rediscovery of the hidden treasure that is the former UCD buildings in Earlsfort Terrace. “I am determined that these buildings should remain available for use by the arts community and I am sure that they will provide an ideal alternative space for IMMA during the closure of its main building at the Royal Hospital. Judging by the outstanding exhibitions which IMMA has brought us over the past few years, I’m confident that we can look forward to an exciting programme in Earlsfort Terrace in 2012 and that this city centre location will draw many new visitors to the museum to experience its always innovative and stimulating work.”
The closure of the main building at IMMA, from 1 November 2011 to 31 December 2012, is due to essential and extensive refurbishment works. However, during this time exhibitions will continue in the New Galleries, beginning on 16 November with a major mid-career survey of the work of the leading Brazilian artist Rivane Neuenschwander, entitled A Day Like Any Other. In addition, the Artists’ Residency Programme will continue on site during the closure, the café and bookshop will remain open to visitors and three sculpture trails will be available in the grounds. IMMA’s successful National Programme will continue as normal in venues around Ireland, North and South.
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