Testament to its popularity with both the artistic community and the general public, the annual snapshot of contemporary Irish visual art that is the IONTAS Small Works Open Exhibition makes its ninth annual appearance. This year's exhibition comprises 161 selected works in what is a strong, balanced and highly satisfying show.
As usual, the painting category is strongly represented, and among works of note are Judy Hamilton's and Meriel Nicholl's abstracts, Clifford Collie's exquisite still-life, Keith Wilson's moody reduced landscape, a small, intense seascape by Maura McGlynn, Cilla Patton's mixed-media "postcards", and a cool but resonant contribution by Irene Hegarty.
The sculpture category is also strong, with works including Bill Freeland's quietly eloquent and elegant composition in mixed materials, Cecilia Moore's evocative "museum pieces", a primordial symbol in bronze by Ray Delaney and Vivian Hansbury's two pieces, in turn assured and startling.
While the drawing category is generally rather disappointing, this year's print category is gratifyingly diverse, with the likes of Hilary Nunan's impressive Ilfochromes, fine photo etchings by Janet Preston and Catherine Lynch, Peter Morgan's category-winning Cibachromes and an understated yet effective etching by Geraldine O'Reilly.
Transfers to RHA Gallagher Gallery, Dublin, from August 2nd to 16th.