Lov-lee art now hanging in the lord mayor's chambers
The Crawford Art Gallery may be closed but its traditions live on as the Lord Mayor has chosen some artwork for his chambers in City Hall.
Two images depicting very different views of Cork city were recently presented to Lord Mayor Cllr Dan Boyle by the gallery. This year, two striking pieces celebrating Cork city’s rich maritime heritage were gifted to the Lord Mayor. These were ‘View of the Port of Cork’ by Seán Keating and ‘Reflections, Parliament Bridge, Cork’ by Edward Yen Sang.
It is a longstanding annual tradition that each new lord mayor is given the opportunity to select artwork from Crawford Art Gallery’s collection, and is presented with a high quality reproductions of the works for display in the lord mayor’s chambers.
The two artworks, though very different in style and perspective, beautifully capture Cork’s character and history. Seán Keating’s ‘View of the Port of Cork’ (c.1960) highlights the city’s proud maritime heritage, showcasing the bustling port that is central to Cork’s identity.
Meanwhile, Edward Yen Sang’s ‘Reflections, Parliament Bridge, Cork’ (c.2002) offers, the gallery said, a more tranquil perspective, portraying the serene beauty of the River Lee juxtaposed against Cork’s urban landscape.
The Lord Mayor said: “These beautiful pieces of art not only showcase the majesty of our city but also reinforce the deep connection Cork has with its river, its people, and its heritage.
“The presentation of these works to the lord mayor’s chambers is a gesture of respect for Cork’s cultural landscape and its future, as they will now become a permanent part of our city's legacy. The addition of these artworks reminds us of the value that art holds in shaping our collective identity.”
Michael Waldron, Curator of Collections & Special Projects at Crawford Art Gallery said: “The Lord Mayor’s selection of images reflects Cork’s unique riverine and maritime identity and the role the Lee has played in the city’s economic and cultural history. They also act as a reminder of his visit to Crawford Art Gallery earlier this year, during Heritage Week, when he saw these artworks for himself in our exhibition From Source to Sea.”
Michelle Carew, Arts Officer for Cork City Council, highlighted the importance of this gift.
“The donation of these works by Crawford Art Gallery is a wonderful celebration of Cork’s artistic vibrancy.
“The inclusion of these paintings in the lord mayor’s chambers will not only enrich the aesthetic of the space but also offer visitors and residents alike the opportunity to connect more deeply with the city’s artistic traditions.
“The relationship between the council and Crawford Art Gallery is vital for Cork’s continued recognition as a centre of culture and creativity.”
Crawford Art Gallery temporarily closed to the public in September 2024 for an extensive renovation and redevelopment project.