Art for the Hospice

For the third consecutive year, all Dublin 15 art lovers will be wending their merry way down to Coolmine RFC for the Castleknock Art Group’s annual exhibition in aid of the Hospice.

With over 240 paintings from over 60 artists on display, it is an ideal opportunity to pick out an original work of art for the sitting room or, if you prefer, simply to browse the many differing styles on view.

“This is jointly an art exhibition and a fundraiser,” explained Amanda Cunningham, one of the co-ordinators of the project. “We decided not to increase the hanging fee of €10 per painting, (with the proceeds going to the Hospice) as it worked so successfully last year. In fact, we have had other charities looking to exhibit paintings of their own with a view to selling them.” Exhibitors of course keep the proceeds of any sales of paintings.

“Last year we had 240 paintings on display and we expect to surpass that this year, such has been the phenomenal interest in the show,” said Amanda.

This mixture of local and national talent was formerly opened by comedienne and performer June Rodgers last year and this year the group has inveigled radio presenter Damien O’Reilly of the Joe Duffy Show fame, to do the honours. Although the core of the exhibition is made up of the twelve members of Castleknock Art Group, (two of which are founder members from the halcyon days of 1978) many artists from around the country are participating in the event. All paintings are for sale and the exhibition represents the perfect opportunity to pick up a work of art at a relatively keen price.

“We managed to raise €5,000 last year in our first exhibition and we raised €8,000 last year,” said Cherry Stanbridge, another member of the group. “So far we have raised €13,000 this year and we still have the proceeds of the auction to come!”

Retired Laurel Lodge priest and acclaimed artist, Fr. Eugene Kennedy has once again donated a painting to be auctioned for the benefit of the hospice. This is but one of many items to go under the hammer,” and the group is hoping to exceed the €1,000 that the auction raised last year.

“The hanging fees go directly to the hospice as do the entrance fee, which is by catalogue, and the proceeds of the raffle,” explained Cherry. “One of our young members, Caroline, sadly passed away three years ago due to cancer which makes this a charity close to our hearts.”

The Castleknock Art Group meets every Wednesday at the Community Centre in St. Patrick’s National School in Diswellstown. Prospective members are invited to call down any Wednesday between 8pm and 10pm.

The Art Exhibition takes place at Coolmine Rugby Club, River Road.
Times are Friday 11th April 7pm-10pm, Saturday 12th April 11am – 6pm and Sunday 13th April 11am – 5pm.

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