Gerard Byrne needs almost no introduction. As one of Ireland’s leading contemporary artists, his extensive collection is representative of a scope and versatility virtually unparalleled in the current contemporary art scene. Brainstorm Creative director Kirsten Cavendish recently spent several days with Gerard, filming a piece entitled “No two journeys are the same”, about the artist, his philosophy, vision and everyday challenges.
Gerard’s landscape and architectural works take one on a stunning and insightful journey through some of the most spectacular vistas, both in his native Ireland and on his foreign travels, particularly in France, Britain, Croatia, Poland and Morocco.
For those already acquainted with Gerard’s work, his frequent plays on perspective are one of the most exciting aspects of his compositions. Equally, it is exciting and challenging to probe into his still life and figurative works and dare to delve into the mind of their creator. The sheer scale and powerful depictions presented within these works have made him one of the most exciting figurative artists on the contemporary scene in Ireland today.
The speed and spontaneity with which he works is demonstrative of a talent which is nothing short of pure nature – a true gift, which has given Gerard the confidence and skill to take his work in such diverse, complex and challenging directions.