Glebe Gallery facts for kids
Glebe House and the Glebe Gallery are special places found just outside Letterkenny, near a village called Churchill, in County Donegal, Ireland. This lovely house was once the home and workplace of a famous English artist named Derek Hill. He lived here from 1954 until 1981, when he generously gave his house and his amazing art collection to the Irish government. Today, Glebe House lets visitors step back in time to see how an artist lived, surrounded by beautiful art and furniture.
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Discovering Glebe House and Gallery
Glebe House is more than just a house; it's a window into the world of art and history. When you visit, you can explore the main house, which shows off Derek Hill's personal art collection. You can also see his old studio, which has been turned into a modern art gallery. This gallery often features new and exciting art shows.
Who Was Derek Hill?
Derek Hill was a talented English artist. He was known for painting both people (portraits) and beautiful outdoor scenes (landscapes). He loved County Donegal so much that he chose Glebe House as his home. For many years, he created art there. His decision to give his home and art to the Irish state means that everyone can now enjoy his collection and learn about art.
What Can You See at Glebe House?
Inside Glebe House, you'll find Derek Hill's own art collection. It includes paintings by some of the most famous artists in the world! Imagine seeing works by Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, and Auguste Renoir. There are also paintings by Irish artists like Louis le Brocquy and Jack Butler Yeats. A special part of the collection features art by Tory Island painters, including James Dixon, who lived on a remote island off the coast of Donegal.
Besides the paintings, the house is filled with beautiful European and Asian furniture. You can also see lovely wallpapers and fabrics designed by William Morris. These details help you imagine what life was like for an artist in this unique home.
Exploring the Glebe Gallery
Derek Hill's old art studio is now a modern art space called the Glebe Gallery. This gallery hosts different art exhibitions throughout the year. These shows feature new and interesting artworks, so there's always something fresh to see. It's a great place to discover new artists and different styles of art.
Visiting the Gardens
The grounds around Glebe House are just as beautiful as the inside. There are lovely woodland gardens that stretch down to the edge of Lough Gartan, a peaceful lake. These gardens are open all year round, so you can enjoy a walk among the trees and plants, no matter the season. It's a perfect spot for a quiet stroll and to enjoy nature.
Planning Your Visit
Glebe House and the Glebe Gallery are managed by the Office of Public Works, which looks after many important sites in Ireland. The gallery is open for a limited time each year, usually around Easter and then from June until the end of September. If you want to see the art collection inside Glebe House, you'll need to join a guided tour. This way, you can learn all about the house and its treasures from an expert guide.
