Sculpture in Context celebrates 40 years at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin

Ireland’s largest and longest-running sculpture exhibition, Sculpture in Context, proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin from Thursday, 4 September to Friday, 10 October 2025.

Much beloved by the public, Sculpture in Context is a pivotal event in the Irish arts calendar. Over the last four decades the unique presentation of ambitious and contemporary three-dimensional work by leading creative talent, has provided the public with memorable experiences. Sculpture in Context gives free access to an annual audience of over 100,000.

The exciting range of sculptures to be presented were selected from over 500 entries submitted via open call. The selection of the exhibits was made by a panel of three independent fellow sculptors. Selected artists include Róisín De Buitléar, Ester Barrett, Fiona Smith, Ayelet Lalor, Ray Delaney, Helen Merrigan Colfer, amongst others.

As part of the anniversary celebration, the exhibition also welcomes several distinguished invited artists. Among them are Eilis O’Connell, Seamus Gill, Ana Duncan, Alison Kaye, Ken Drew, Beatrice Stewart, Ciaran Patterson, Penny Lacey, Michelle Maher, and Richard Healy, whose contributions further enrich this 40th anniversary exhibition.

Sculpture in Context will run from Thursday, 4 September to Friday, 10 October; is free to visit and all are welcome. The National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin will be open 9.00 to 17.00 on weekdays and 10.00 to 18.00 on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Sculpture in Context is proceeding this year owing to the goodwill and support of OPW, private sponsorship and personal donations. Sculpture in Context extends heartfelt thanks to the many artists who applied this year and to all those who have contributed to its success over the past 40 years.

OPW spokespersons are available for interview upon request. Please contact pressoffice@opw.ie for more information and to arrange an interview.

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Listing information

• exhibition title: Sculpture in Context
• location: National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin
• dates: 4 September – 10 October 2025
• opening times: Monday – Friday: 9.00 – 17.00. Weekends and bank holidays: 10.00 – 18.00
• admission: Free

For more information, please contact info@sculptureincontext.com, or visit www.sculptureincontext.ie or www.botanicgardens.ie