Mission
To introduce a novel artistic platform that will aid in revitalizing the arts scene in Ireland. Sprawled across an expanse of 160 acres, lies a magnificent sculpture park of international renown, complete with a sprawling indoor gallery. The art gallery is set to display exhibitions from various galleries and creative venues across Ireland, while also fostering a fresh form of partnership to bolster the vibrant visual arts community.
Upon arriving at Burtown House, guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a plethora of activities and facilities, making for a complete experience whether for a day trip or a weekend getaway. These offerings include wandering through the 160-acre sculpture park and browsing the gallery, dining at the Green Barn restaurant, exploring The Gallery at Burtown, treating oneself at Jo's Pantry, and venturing over to The Stable Yard.
We aim to establish a magnificent artistic immersion for our guests to relish and a pioneering medium that has yet to be explored in Ireland.
Vision
Following years of economic downturn and now the added challenge of a global pandemic, the field of visual arts in Ireland has been dealt a heavy blow. The closure of galleries and arts venues has severely limited opportunities for both artists and curators. It is time for Ireland to experience a rebirth in the arts, with a major surge of support and rejuvenation. Artists must be granted more chances to create and showcase their work, while curators require additional venues to hone their craft.
This emerging enterprise strives to establish itself as a cutting-edge platform dedicated to promoting the visual arts in Ireland. Taking inspiration from the essence of a sculpture garden, the organization will oversee a yearly open-air showcase.
The company intends to partner with art galleries in Ireland and abroad to establish captivating, stimulating, and cutting-edge exhibits that will elevate the discourse on the arts in Ireland.
The Problem
Ireland's intimate art community has long been a bastion of talent, a sanctuary for creative exploration amid the lush landscapes and spirited cities. Yet, the signs of decline are glaring. Galleries that once adorned the streets of Dublin now stand silent, ‘to let’ signs punctuating the artistic expanse. The impacts of this decline are manifold:
Erosion of the Cultural Fabric: The closure of significant galleries and the diminishing presence of art in public spaces reflect a gradual erosion of Ireland's cultural identity.
Diminished Livelihoods: For local artists, the shrinking market and lack of space to exhibit their work translate to precarious livelihoods and a dearth of recognition for their contributions to society.
Stagnation of Economic Potential: A dynamic arts sector is not merely a contributor to the Irish economy; it is a catalyst for social innovation and a magnet for tourism and investment.
The art sector faces challenges with limited exhibition spaces, inadequate business support, and a lean market for patrons and collectors. This stifles creativity and negatively impacts the economic viability of artists and institutions. Community-based art, which binds people through shared narratives and expression, also suffers from a lack of resources and venues. This vital aspect of the arts is crucial for social cohesion, personal growth, and community pride, and is an essential part of a nation's cultural heritage.
The Solution
Our vision is to create a park that features contemporary work and provides an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. We will engage international curators and arts professionals to create dynamic sculptural exhibitions, which will be installed on the site. The site will be open to the public who can purchase tickets to access. Artists we would seek to show would include Irish artists such as Aoife Bambury, Corban Walker and Patrick O’Reilly and international sculptural artists such as Anish Kapoor, Yayoi Kusama and Richard Serra.
This new initiative will provide artists with an innovative platform to showcase large-scale sculptures. This platform will allow creators to share their artwork with a larger audience and reach a wider range of people. It will also provide a space for artists to collaborate and exchange ideas, as well as a platform for criticism and feedback. With the help of this platform, artists can connect with potential buyers, sponsors, and gallery owners who can help them further their careers.
Ultimately, this platform will serve as a gateway for artists to access fresh prospects and generate revenue through their creations. By offering a protected and reliable arena for artists to display their pieces, this endeavour will assist them in achieving their aspirations and transforming their visions into tangible accomplishments.