Ireland's Premier Sculpture Exhibition
For four decades, Sculpture in Context has been a pivotal event in the Irish arts calendar. It provides a unique platform for artists to display three-dimensional works outside of a traditional gallery, making contemporary sculpture accessible to a vast public audience in a stunning natural setting.
40
Years of Exhibitions
100,000+
Annual Visitors
150+
Artists Exhibited Annually
A Journey Through Time
From its inception with a mission to showcase sculpture in new environments, the event has grown in prestige and found its celebrated home. This timeline highlights the key milestones in its rich history. Click on each point to learn more about its evolution.
1985
1986 - 2001
2002
2025
A Platform for Artists
In a market often focused on painting, sculptors in Ireland face unique challenges like higher material costs and the need for larger studios. Sculpture in Context provides an essential, inclusive, and high-profile platform, boosting careers and connecting artists with a wide audience and potential buyers.
Showcasing a Spectrum of Talent
The exhibition is committed to supporting artists at every stage of their career, from recent graduates to established names in the field. This diversity is a cornerstone of the event's identity.
A Prestigious Selection
Each year, hundreds of artists apply for a coveted spot in the exhibition. A rigorous selection process by an independent panel ensures a high standard of work, making participation a significant achievement.
Art in a Living Museum
The visitor experience is central to the event's success. Since 2002, its home at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin provides a breathtaking backdrop where art and nature converge. Visitors can discover sculptures nestled among rare plants, within historic glasshouses, and across 50 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. This unique context allows for large-scale and site-specific works that couldn't be housed in a traditional gallery, creating a memorable and accessible cultural day out for all, completely free of charge.