Five-star Cork welcome for works by Salvador Dalí and Liam O'Neill at outdoor exhibition

Des O'Sullivan previews the big-name international sculptors' work at a month-long outdoor exhibition at Castlemartyr Resort

Liam O’Neill's 'Footing the Turf', Salvador Dalí's 'Unicorn', and Eamonn Ceannt's 'Dance Dance Dance' feature at Art + Soul, hosted by Gormleys in Castlemartyr Resort grounds from June 1-28.

One of Ireland’s most popular and visually striking arts events returns to Cork in June. Open to everyone and free of charge, the international art and sculpture exhibition Art + Soul is at Castlemartyr Resort from June 1-28.

More than 350 artworks will be on display, including more than 100 life-size sculptures.

Highlights this year include a rare presentation of sculptural works by Salvador Dalí, complemented by a selection of smaller works by the Spanish surrealist known for striking and bizarre images like Unicorn, laden with sensual meaning.

In his autobiography, Dalí paints his wife Gala riding a unicorn and writes: “Gala, mounted on the Unicorn of my Fate.”

Salvador Dalí's 'Unicorn'.

This exhibition, featuring large sculptural pieces in an open-air display in the resort’s lush grounds and paintings exhibited within the hotel, drew 10,000 visitors last year. It is now in its fourth year.

Work by international artists like Andy Warhol, Banksy and Tracey Emin is shown alongside Irish contemporary artists and sculptors like renowned West Kerry artist Liam O’Neill, who has latterly expanded his practice into sculpture.

Deeply rooted in Irish history and culture and renowned for paintings that capture the spirit and beauty of his native region, the show presents new works in bronze by O’Neill. 

Liam O’Neill's 'Footing Turf' will feature at Art + Soul at Castlemartyr Resort.

The sculptor’s collaboration with Bronzesmith Fine Art Foundry has led to the discovery of a distinctive new artistic voice, while remaining true to his own style as the art continues to evolve.

Irish sculpture is strongly represented. There is, for instance, a new body of work by Eamonn Ceannt that distils the human figure into expressive forms.

Ian Pollock’s bronze sculptures explore themes of time, transformation and the human condition.

Further sculptural highlights include works by Sophie Ryder, known for her monumental myth-inspired figures, and Philip Jackson, whose distinctive sculptures are inspired by the traditions of Venice, bringing a sense of theatre, mystery and historical resonance.

Eamonn Ceannt's 'Dance Dance Dance'.

The variety of artistic expression at Art + Soul, with its wide spectrum of styles, disciplines and perspectives, is enough to take the breath away.

The exhibition is open daily from 11am to 7pm. Free guided tours take place at noon, 2pm and 4pm will offer a deeper insight into the artworks and the ideas behind them. 

This not-to-be-missed show invites the viewer to experience and engage directly with contemporary art in an open and accessible way.

The beautiful setting of an 18th-century manor estate is a bonus. See Gormleys.ie and Castlemartyrresort.ie.

Patrick O'Reilly's 'The Warrior'.