Although it is mostly natty little art galleries in Killarney, there are a number of very notable exhibition venues to look out for. The Killarney Art Gallery is without question the top gallery in town and boasts a huge wealth of paintings to appreciate, being the best place to view contemporary art.
A couple of cute art shops are tucked away in quiet lanes, particularly around New Street. Cunningham's Art Gallery is one such shop, being home to reasonably-priced pieces created by local students. Nearby are the Frank Lewis and McBride galleries, both of which may also be of interest.
Killarney Art Gallery
Address: 5 Plunkett Street, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 064 663 4628
Set up in 1990 by Declan Mulvany, the Killarney Art Gallery features exhibits from both noted and up-and-coming contemporary Irish artists. This popular exhibition space is bright and airy, and holds hundreds of interesting works. Jack B. Yeats is one of the permanent artists showcased here, while there are also temporary exhibitions staged on a regular basis.
Open: Monday to Saturday - 11:00 to 18:00, Sunday - 14:00 to 18:00, seasonal summer open nights also take place
Admission: charge
Frank Lewis Gallery
Address: 6 Bridewell Lane, off New Street, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 064 663 1108
The Frank Lewis Gallery is an unassuming venue in an unassumingly pretty cottage, near to the town centre. As with the Killarney Art Gallery, the Frank Lewis has become known for its contemporary works, including pieces by the likes of both Ronnie Moore and Pauline Bewick. The exhibitions are complemented by just the right amount of light and space. During the summer months, a garden sculpture show goes on display.
Open: Monday to Saturday - 09:00 to 18:00
Admission: free
Cunningham's Art Gallery
Address: Bishop's Lane, New Street, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 064 663 6453
Cunningham's Art Gallery shop on Bishop's Lane sees local students selling their art works. A surprising amount of art using various mediums is on sale, including paintings, carvings and sculptures. Although it may be a little cramped and unruly, this is all part of the charm and character, with bits and bobs here and there - and if you are prepared to rummage around, you can dig out some real goodies. This gallery also holds art classes.
Open: daily
Admission: free
McBride Gallery
Address: 25 New Street, Killarney, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 064 667 1483
The McBride Gallery has become well-known for its contemporary Irish art, with large canvasses and photographs being displayed. Highlights include paintings of native wildlife, birds and flowers, as well as abstract landscapes and urban scenes. Although few formal exhibitions are staged here, the work on display is regularly rotated and changed, with around 20 main artists being showcased at any one time.
Open: Monday to Saturday - 10:00 to 13:00, 14:00 to 18:00
Admission: free
