About The Exhibition
In 2025 Sculpture in Context celebrates 40 years supporting artists by exhibiting and promoting sculpture in Ireland. Sculpture in Context is an annual exhibition which supports and creates opportunities for artists working in three-dimensional form, at all stages of their career, to show their work in an area of environmental, historical and architectural importance.
Sculpture in Context is a pivotal event in the Irish arts calendar and as the longest running, and largest dedicated sculpture exhibition in the country, the annual exhibition attracts a large public and critical audience and is the cultural highlight of the National Botanic Gardens’ calendar.
Showcasing the work of graduates, emerging and established artists, these works of art represent the richly diverse character of Irish and International contemporary sculpture today. The artistic integrity and technical expertise involved in creating the works is evident throughout and highlights the breadth and depth of artistic talent and skill.
The exhibition has a special focus on the environment, sustainability and promoting awareness of our surroundings and encourages innovation, education and public discourse in this area.
The National Botanic Gardens were founded in 1795 by the Royal Dublin Society and are now operated and managed by the Office of Public Works. The gardens contain important collections of plant species and cultivars from all over the world and are famous for the exquisitely restored historic glasshouses.
With free access for all, visitors to the exhibition will be enriched by the experience of viewing such inspiring works in this spectacular location.
Our History
Sculpture in Context was established in 1985 by sculptors Cliodna Cussen, Gerard Cox and Colm Brennan, with the aim of providing exhibition venues outside the normal gallery context.
The first exhibition was held in Fernhill Gardens, since then it has been hosted in several prestigious locations including Malahide Castle, Kilmainham Gaol, Dublin Castle, Farmleigh House and the walled gardens at Oldbridge, Battle of the Boyne.
In 2002 we were invited to the National Botanic Gardens where the annual exhibition is now the highlight of the gardens’ calendar. Sculpture in Context is the largest and most prestigious dedicated sculpture exhibition in Ireland.
We continue to promote and raise the profile of sculpture in Ireland by showcasing both emerging and established artists and by providing a platform for graduates and young artists starting out on their careers.
Our Mission
Sculpture in Context supports artists to present sculpture in unique indoor and outdoor spaces with free access for all and encourages innovation, education and public discourse.
Our Objectives
To engage with artists at all levels to ensure everyone feels truly valued, supported and represented
To encourage the broadest possible definition of sculptural practice encompassing object making, installation and performance along with emerging hybrid forms, permanent or ephemeral
To create a space that allows artists to showcase their creativity and connect with potential buyers, while also offering art lovers a chance to discover and own original works.
To Educate, inform and excite audiences with free access for all
