Waterford Gallery of Art, Waterford

The Waterford Gallery of Art offers a compelling glimpse into the nation's painting legacy throughout the first half of the twentieth century. Formerly known as The Waterford Municipal Art Collection, this institution holds a distinguished status as one of Ireland's oldest and most esteemed municipal art collections. Established in 1939, the collection has flourished over the years, now encompassing a diverse array of over 500 artworks, ranging from paintings and prints to photography and sculptures.

The gallery found its new home in a historic building designed by acclaimed Waterford-born architect Thomas Jackson. This relocation occurred on October 18, 2019, marking a significant milestone in the gallery's journey. Among the highlights of its collection are works by renowned artists such as Paul Henry, Jack B. Yeats, Louis Le Brocquy, and many others, alongside contemporary acquisitions reflecting the vibrant landscape of modern Irish art.

The roots of the gallery trace back to the early 1930s, with the vision of establishing a civic art gallery and collection within Waterford. This vision gained momentum with the annual art exhibition initiated by artist Hilda Roberts and her husband Arnold Marsh, headmaster of Newtown School Waterford. Over the years, the collection found temporary homes in various locations across the city before finally settling into its permanent residence at the Waterford Gallery of Art.

Today, the gallery serves as a dedicated space for showcasing selected artworks from the Waterford Municipal Art Collection, offering visitors an immersive experience into Ireland's artistic legacy.