The Hugh Lane, located in Dublin City Gallery, has a fascinating history that revolves around Sir Hugh Lane’s groundbreaking idea. Hugh Lane organised the first exhibition of Irish art in London in 1904, and he continued to innovate by endowing the Gallery with an unparalleled collection of modern art, including the first impressionist paintings in any public collection in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The collection was handed to Dublin Corporation (now Dublin City Council) by Sir Hugh Lane in 1908.
The Gallery has expanded on this excellent foundation and spirit in the years since, under the leadership of the Dublin City Council. They have significantly expanded the collection while maintaining the same focus on the extraordinary. The Gallery’s concentration remains on modern and contemporary art and the best of Irish art practice. Francis Bacon’s studio and archive were purchased by the Gallery, creating an exciting and unique resource that draws audiences, artists, and historians from around the world. The Gallery performs a vital cultural role in Ireland through its innovative and highly acclaimed programmes and internationally famous collections. They are part of the Dublin City Council and also they are a registered charity.
The Hugh Lane Gallery Trust Limited was incorporated under the Companies Act of 1963 in 1998. Dublin City Council owns 100% of the corporation. Under its Memorandum and Articles of Association, the Company (Members) elects Trustees, who serve on the Board of Directors are responsible for the gallery’s strategic development and management.
On Parnell Square North, the gallery is located in Charlemont House.
