Butler Gallery facts for kids
The Butler Gallery is a cool place in Kilkenny, Ireland, where you can see amazing art! It's a modern art gallery and museum that shows off artworks from the 1700s all the way up to today. You'll find pieces by artists from Ireland and around the world.
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Discovering Art at Butler Gallery
The Butler Gallery is known for its interesting collection of art. It features many different styles and periods. This means you can see everything from older paintings to very new and exciting art installations.
What Kind of Art Can You See?
The gallery has a wide range of art. It includes paintings, sculptures, and other creative works. The goal is to show how art has changed over time and how artists express themselves.
The Tony O'Malley Wing
A special part of the gallery is dedicated to the work of Tony O'Malley. He was a famous artist from Callan, which is also in County Kilkenny. This wing also features art by his wife, Jane. It's a great way to learn about their unique artistic journey.
The Story of Butler Gallery
The Butler Gallery has a long and interesting history. It was first opened in Kilkenny city way back in 1943. It has grown and changed a lot since then.
How the Gallery Started
The gallery was started by a person named George Pennefather. He wanted to create a place where people could enjoy and learn about art. It was named in honor of two important people, Susan (Peggy) and Hubert Butler. They were known for their love of art and culture.
From Castle Basement to Evans' Home
For many years, the Butler Gallery was located in a very different spot. It used to be in the basement of Kilkenny Castle. Imagine an art gallery hidden away in a castle!
Now, the gallery has a new and much bigger home. It moved to the redeveloped Evans' Home. This building has its own history. It was built in the 1800s as an "almshouse." This means it was a place where people who needed help, like domestic servants who were struggling, could live.
Evans' Home: A New Purpose
The old Evans' Home building has been carefully updated. It now provides a beautiful and modern space for the gallery. This move allowed the Butler Gallery to show even more art and welcome more visitors. It's a wonderful example of how old buildings can be given a new life.
Visiting Butler Gallery
The Butler Gallery is a fantastic place to visit if you're in Kilkenny. It offers a chance to explore different types of art and learn about artists. It's a welcoming space for everyone, whether you know a lot about art or are just starting to explore it.