Announcing Photo Museum Ireland

Gallery of Photography Ireland is establishing Ireland’s first permanent museum for contemporary photography and will now be called Photo Museum Ireland, reflecting the significant evolution of its remit.

As we open a new chapter in the development of Irish photography, we would first like to thank the 1000+ artists who have exhibited with us since we were established in 1978. Our work is only possible through your work.

Thanks also to: our founder John Osman and previous director Christine Redmond; Board members past and present; our panels of specialist advisors; our core funders The Arts Council and Dublin City Council and other funding bodies and agencies who support us to develop and share photography with our valued visitors and friends in Ireland and throughout the world.

The change of our legal and business names to Photo Museum Ireland reflects our role in leading the development of the art of photography in Ireland. It builds on the recently established National Photography Collection and is an important step toward our goal of relocating to a larger, museum-standard space on a par with Fotomuseums across Europe. It will help us to fully deliver on the potential of our flourishing contemporary photographic culture, says the organisation's chief executive officer, Trish Lambe. 

Currently located in Meeting House Square in Temple Bar, the organisation has over forty years of experience supporting Irish artists to make great art that connects with contemporary audiences. Our acclaimed programme of curated exhibitions and commissions provide deep and sustained support for Irish artists to undertake major projects. Over the years we have presented work by the biggest Irish and international names in photography. Our talks, workshops, award-winning education and national outreach projects foster a critical understanding of photography, making us one of Ireland’s leading arts venues.

Becoming Photo Museum Ireland is a significant development for contemporary photography in Ireland. It also marks the establishment of our National Photography Collection, and exciting new initiatives including our innovative interactive Timeline of Irish Photography, new Artists' platforms and expanded Education Resources – now available to enjoy online.

It’s an exciting time for photography in Ireland. We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with artists, curators, galleries, photo festivals and organisations here in Ireland and internationally to support and share great photography with everyone!