Art and Craft
Fine art is in abundance in Waterford. From painters like Roisin O’Shea and Mick Mulchahy to the extraordinary craft of crystal glass, there are creative endeavours to be found all over the county.
In Waterford city, visit the Soma Gallery, the Solo Arte Gallery, or the The Garter Lane Gallery, which hosts both fine art and photography.
Outside Waterford city you can find the excellent Joan Clancy Gallery, worth a visit for its fine setting alone, overlooking Dungarvan Bay. It exhibits work from both emerging and established artists. Also in Dungarvan, you’ll find The Old Market House Arts Centre, a building dating from the 17th century, which hosts frequent fine art exhibits. If you’re heading to the heritage town of Lismore, try Lismore Castle Arts for world class contemporary art exhibitions in an unbeatable setting. In Tramore the Coastguard Arts Centre hosts regular art exhibitions as well as musical concerts.
Individual artists such as Eveleen Power or Roisin O’Shea often have their own studio/galleries, and can be found through the helpful and expansive artists listings at Artlinks.
When it comes to souvenirs, there are plenty of local designers and craftspeople to choose from, including Ardmore Pottery and Gallery, not to mention the selection of crystal glass businesses in the county.
For those who wish to enhance their own creative skills The Art Hand is a new school run by full time professional artists, Sean and Miranda Corcoran, who set intensive and challenging courses in stained glass, mosaic, digital art, film, music production, painting and drawing.
Workhouse Studios is an exciting collective of artists, designers and makers based in Kilmacthomas Workhouse. The studios host courses and workshops throughout the year as well fostering new creative businesses.
