Looking to fill those long summer evenings? After Hours at the Hugh Lane Gallery is just the thing

Katy Thornton

With Hugh Lane Gallery

There’s just a few more weeks left of those long summer evenings – and we know just how to make the most of them.

There’s something particularly special about a Thursday evening. The workday is over, it’s almost Friday, and there’s a certain buzz in the air. The anticipation for the weekend is palpable, leading to many wanting to kick things off early, and one of Dublin’s most prestigious art institutions is playing host to an incredible new series that allows you to do just that.

Introducing After Hours at the Hugh Lane Gallery. Every Thursday in August, the gallery will host a series of events which will include art workshops, mindfulness, music, food, drinks, free exhibition tours and more. Staying open until the later time of 8:30pm, you and your mates will have plenty of time to hit up the gallery after your 9-5.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your guys and gals, and check out After Hours to make the most of your Thursday evening with a bit of culture. Due to the wide array of events and activities, not to mention the fantastic selection of art on display, there is bound to be something in there to tickle your fancy.

What’s On

Sip & Paint – Sarah Purser Edition

Using the current exhibition MORE POWER TO YOU as your muse, you will get to create your own unique masterpiece, whether you’re a seasoned painter, or just love to get creative. All materials will be provided for you, and the session will kick off with some basic art exercises to get those inspired juices flowing. This event will take place in the iconic Hugh Lane Gallery Sculpture Hall, and your ticket will include two drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). This event is strictly 18+ ONLY, and takes place on August 8th from 6:30pm. Tickets €25 via Eventbrite here.

Contemporary Female Expression: A life drawing class with Geraldine Carton

On August 15th, visitors can join artist Geraldine Carton for an evening of drawing as we reclaim the portrayal of women in art. You don’t want to miss it. Tickets are €25 and are available via Eventbrite and it includes one drink.

Art Quiz

For August 22nd, those visiting the Hugh Lane Gallery after hours can partake in a bit of healthy competition in an art quiz based in the iconic Sculpture Hall. Each ticketholder will receive a complimentary drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Individual tickets cost €8, or for a team of four it’s €20, and this event is also strictly 18+ ONLY. The quiz kicks off at 6pm and there are some great prizes to be won. Tickets are available from Eventbrite here, or search ‘Expert Art Tour’ on Eventbrite for other dates.

Mindful Meander & Sound Bath

On August 29th, visitors can join in a mindful meander, led by artist Ashleigh Downey. This is a slower approach to art consumption, an interactive session which incorporates elements of slow looking, soundscaping, reflecting, and mindfulness. Chloe from Sonas-Sounds will then guide a group sound meditation, for deep listening and contemplation in the beautiful surrounds of the Hugh Lane Gallery Sculpture Hall, ideal for you to cast your mind over the incredible work you’ve just seen. This event starts at 6pm and tickets are available from Eventbrite here.

Live music

Every Thursday the gallery will have a different music act to maintain the ambience of the evening, ranging from DJs, to contemporary classics, to an intimate acoustic session. You can check out some of the performers below.

August 8th: DJ Steve Reddy
August 15th: DJs Francois Pittion & Mick Heaney
August 22nd: The Tiny Quartet
August 29th: Molly O’Mahony (Tickets available from Eventbrite)

Expert Art Tour – MORE POWER TO YOU: Sarah Purser – A Force for Irish Art

Every Thursday during After Hours, the expert guides at the Hugh Lane Gallery will take you through the acclaimed exhibition MORE POWER TO YOU: Sarah Purser – A Force for Irish Art, answering all your questions and exploring the legacy of this incredible artist. These tours last one hour between 6:30pm and 7:30pm. Tickets available via Eventbrite here.

Free to Roam

If you’d rather absorb the art on your own time, you will have the option to roam freely around the gallery instead and take in their various exhibitions, of which they currently have: MORE POWER TO YOU, Sacred Trust, Time & Time Again and High Expectations as well as the incredible Francis Bacon’s Studio, Harry Clarke stained Glass and the dedicated Sean Scully Room.

Fáilte Le Grá

After your visit, head to the Hugh Lane gallery’s resident café and finish up your evening with a glass of wine. Please note, Fáilte Le Grá will not be open on the evening of Molly O’Mahony’s performance.