An Chéad Tine Art Gallery is delighted to announce our upcoming exhibition, The Kilkenny Portrait Show 2024, celebrating contemporary portraiture showcasing some of the finest talents across Ireland. With a generous €1,000 prize up for grabs, this competition is set to be an exciting highlight of the Irish art calendar.
Key Information for Artists
Who Can Enter?
This open-call competition is available to all artists over 18 years of age currently residing anywhere on the island of Ireland, including Northern Ireland. Whether you’re an emerging or established artist, this is a fantastic opportunity to have your work seen and appreciated.
What Media Are Eligible?
Artists may submit handmade works in any medium, including Oil, acrylic, watercolour, gouache, pastels, charcoal, pencil, ink, and mixed media on paper, canvas, board, sculpture and ceramics.
*However, please note that photography and digital printouts are not eligible – we want to celebrate the skill and craftsmanship of traditional hand-created work.
What is the Subject?
Artists are invited to interpret portraiture in any way they see fit, from abstract to figurative realism. The only requirement is that the work should clearly represent or strongly imply the human figure. Unfortunately, no animals – not even the most beloved pets – are permitted as the primary subject matter.
Exhibition Dates & Collection
Opening Date: Saturday, 16th March at 2pm
Exhibition Runs Until: Saturday, 14th April at 5pm
Collection of Unsold Work: Sunday, 15th April (all day) and by arrangement thereafter
(For those advancing to the RHA’s second round, we’ve confirmed their hand-in date is Monday, 15th April.)
The Prize
The best portrait in the show will receive a €1,000 cash prize, which will be awarded at the opening event on Saturday, 16th March at 2pm. The winner will be notified 48 hours in advance and is expected to attend the event.
Meet the Kilkenny Portrait Show Selector – Blaise Smith RHA
Renowned Irish portrait artist Blaise Smith RHA will be the judge for this inaugural year. With a reputation for capturing the essence of his subjects in striking detail, his selection will be an exciting insight into what defines contemporary portraiture today.
How to Enter
One entry per artist
Submission is via digital submission by email
No additional supporting material is required
It is very important to correctly name the JPEG file as per the submission guidelines
Submission Fee
A €15 submission fee is required to help cover the costs of installation and invigilation. This fee can be paid via the submission website link provided in the application process.
Commissions & Sales
Portraits may be for sale, but this is not a requirement
An Chéad Tine Gallery will take a 25% commission on sales during the exhibition
A 20% commission will apply to any portrait commissions arising from the show
Important Deadlines
Submission Deadline: Sunday, 18th February at 10pm
Collection of Work: Sunday, 14th April (11am – 4:30pm)