A walk through the Cork Crawford Gallery

Originally built as Cork’s Custom House in 1724, the building was then institutionalised as the Crawford School of Art (previously the Cork School of Art), being owned by and named after a local family of brewers and merchants in 1885. Today, the building features over 3,000 works of modern art as well as ancient architectural marvels!

The main features of the Crawford gallery are Greek and Roman collections brought to Cork in 1818 at its original location. These pieces were sent from the Vatican Museum in Rome and are still part of the collection today a prime part of the ongoing exhibitions that attract up to 250,000 visitors a year! Amongst these, are the works of Antonia Canova and the “Recasting Canova” exhibition, featuring his recreations of such Ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.

In addition to workshops, artistic performances, and tours, the museum is always on the hunt for new artists and styles, offering unique exhibitions throughout the year. Such current exhibitions include “Artists’ Film International” (5 July – 22 September 2024) encompassing various films responding to the theme of Solidarity.

The museum is public and free, so no need to come up with cash before your visit. Opening hours are 10AM to 5PM Monday through Wednesday and Friday through Saturday, 10AM to 8PM on Thursdays, and 10AM to 4PM on Sundays.

By car:

• From Cork airport, follow the road for Kinsale via le N27 for 22 minutes before heading into the city centre and following signs for St Patrick’s Quay, make a turn for Christy Ring Bridge before following signs for Emmett Place.

By Plane:

• There are multiple direct flights from any London airport to Cork airport.

By bus:

• Take the 251, 225 or 226 from Cork Airport until the “Crawford Art Gallery” stop.