An exhibition of works of art influenced by dreams and the unconscious

Encompassing strands of artistic expression ranging from early twentieth century Symbolism, to late twentieth century Photo-Realism, The Language of Dreams will explore aspects of Irish art often overlooked in conventional art history, where exterior reality is less important than an interior world of vivid and surreal imagery, based on the imagination. Among the artists represented are Patrick Hennessy—whose anniversary takes place in 2016—Colin Middleton, Nevill Johnson, Hilda Roberts, Brian Boydell, Thurloe Conolly, Gerard Dillon, Ralph Cusack, Cecil Ffrench Salkeld and Mary Swanzy. 

Works by Giorgio de Chirico and Salvador Dali will represent the European context of Surrealism. However, the main emphasis will be works of art created in Ireland in the decade from 1935 onwards, when the rise of Fascism prompted an artistic response from those working within an “anti-establishment” creative framework. The exhibition will be accompanied by a full colour pamphlet exploring the history of the artists featured and how their inter-personal relationships spurred the development of artistic movements in Ireland.