THE 2024 ORPEN EXHIBITION

Welcome to the captivating realm of Major Sir William Newenham Montague Orpen, KBE, RA, RHA. An exhibition curated by Dominic Lee, Orpen Research Archives.

‘Sir William Orpen, A Family Legacy’ was a six-month exhibition of paintings, artworks and memorabilia of the Orpen family, hosted at Farmleigh Gallery, Phoenix Park, in Dublin. It included rarely seen items from the Orpen Research Archives – and was accompanied by a 60-page, Fine Art Catalogue, showing many previously unseen treasures of the Orpen Family. The exhibition ran from mid March through to August 2024 and according to the staff at Farmleigh, it was the best they’ve had in years, receiving over 10,000 visitors.

With paintings, illustrated letters, drawings, watercolours and memorabilia on display – the exhibition was a cornucopia of delights, showcasing rarely seen items by Sir William Orpen; his father Arthur, mother Annie, brother Richard, sister-in-law Cherry, daughter Diana, niece Bea and cousin Thomas.

UNIQUE, UNSEEN ITEMS FROM THE ORPEN ARCHIVES

The exhibition, journeyed through the Orpen Research Archives, passing milestones that define the life and work of this enigmatic figure – and also of his friends and family. A unique event, curated by Dominic Lee, who, on the death of his friend, Chris Pearson, took over the Orpen Research Archives. More than 100 items were on display, several of which have been stored in boxes for more than 90 years. Many personal items and exhibits were also loaned for the duration, for which we are grateful.

PURCHASE THE FINE ART CATALOGUE FROM THE EXHIBITION

To accompany the exhibition, we created a stunning, 60 page Fine Art Catalogue showing many of the images and artefacts on display.

All proceeds from the sale of the Orpen Exhibition catalogue will go towards The Orpen Prize.

EXHIBITION MARKED THE LAUNCH OF THE ORPEN PRIZE

This exhibition marked the launch of The Orpen Prize – a prestigious new competition for Irish Artists, inviting self-portraits that capture a moment in time when they were ‘ready to start’ their own careers. Find out more.