PICS: Irish artists attend the opening of Páipéar at the recently redeveloped Central Plaza on Dame Street

Irish artists were hanging out on Dublin’s Dames Street on Thursday evening for the opening of Páipéar, a large-scale visual arts exhibition taking place at the recently redeveloped Central Plaza on Dame Street.

115 of Ireland’s leading artists are taking part in the colourful exhibition, which has been organised by Hang Tough Contemporary. Entry is free and the show will run through to September with up to 20,000 visitors expected to attend.

Spotted on the night were Artist Maser, Helen Cody, Rebekah O’Leary ,Corina Gaffey and Anthony Remedy as well as American Artist David McDermott.

The exhibition has been organised by Hang Tough Contemporary, an art gallery based on Exchequer Street, Dublin. Speaking at the exhibition, gallery director, Michael ‘Rubio’ Hennigan says he invites members of the public to come and be inspired: “Audiences can experience a museum scale show with an eclectic range of submissions, from paintings, drawings, pastel works, mixed media to collage and spray-painted pieces.”

“It is a celebration of the artistic talent that this country has to offer and a unique opportunity to experience the works of some of Ireland’s most exciting contemporary artists in a totally unique and accessible setting. We would encourage members of the public to come and be inspired.”

The use of the building has been granted to the organisers, to host artists for the exhibition, by the real estate developers Hines.

The location provides unparalleled exposure for the work of the exhibiting artists and the exhibition coincides with the Central Plaza redevelopment launch.

Rubio adds: “At a time when there is such debate over spaces for artists in the city, we are deeply grateful to Hines for supporting our vision for the project. We have been working together for a number of months to transform the space into a purposely designed gallery.”

“The location provides an incredible opportunity in terms of footfall and to coincide with the exhibition we will be hosting a number of talks and arts events throughout the summer months.”