Belfast is a city with a rich history and a turbulent political past with tensions still existing to this day. All of this has contributed to a thriving art scene and today the city is experiencing a rebirth becoming a hub for culture, technology and innovation all while never forgetting its past. Because of all of this, Belfast is now a very popular tourist destination and art lovers are flocking to the city to take in both classic and contemporary pieces and the eclectic range of galleries that the city has to offer. So if you’re an art lover and are planning on visiting Belfast then here are 6 must sees that are sure to make your visit one to remember.
Ulster Museum
Ulster Museum
Located in the popular Botanic Gardens area of Belfast, the Ulster Museum is home to some of the best art anywhere in Northern Ireland. There are in fact over 11,000 pieces of art for you to explore in the museum, so you better set aside some time. There are works from artists all over the world but if you are looking for that local touch then check out the Art of the Troubles collection which showcases local talent and tells the complex and emotional story of Northern Ireland’s troubled past.
The MAC
The MAC
The Metropolitan Art Centre (MAC) is located in the trendy Cathedral Quarter area of Belfast and it’s a definite must-see for any art lover visiting the city. Even the building itself looks like a piece of art, sort of wedged in between 2 existing buildings but rising high and catching the eye with its unusual shape and dark exterior with brick mixed with glass. Inside however is where the real experience begins as the MAC boasts not one but three outstanding galleries which offer a blend of local and international work so you’re sure to find what you’re looking for and it’s open seven days a week with free admission.
Belfast Murals
This may seem like a strange inclusion but our murals on both sides of the community are the definition of art. They conjure up feelings, hearken back to a dark but important time in our past and tell the story of what the city has come through to be where it is today. The murals are very popular amongst sightseeing tourists and you can even get a local tour guide to accompany you and tell you all about the history and politics behind these pieces of street art.
Belfast Murals
Belfast Exposed
If you’re a fan of photography, then Belfast Exposed is the place for you. This gallery showcases a huge collection of contemporary photography once again including both local and internationally renown photographers. They have an archive of over half a million images and are famed in the city for their socially conscious work and inclusive exhibitions and workshops. When you visit Belfast Exposed you might just come away having learned some new skills.
Eakin Gallery
This is a small family-run gallery that you could easily miss unless you’re on the lookout for it and you should be. Located on Lisburn Road in Belfast, the Eakin Gallery was first established in 1979 and has been a constant in the Belfast art scene ever since. If you want to check out work of some of Northern Ireland’s best artists such as James Humbert, Frank McKelvey and William Conor then you must visit the Eakin gallery. As well as being a gallery they are also an art dealer, so you will be able to purchase some of the displayed pieces. This makes it particularly popular with tourists as looking is one thing but it’s good to be able to take some authentic Irish art home with you and there are specific websites that are dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Irish art that you can buy paintings from.
The Eakin Gallery
Gormleys Fine Art
Gormleys is a must see if you are looking for new up-and-coming local artists to excite you as they are renowned for their promotion of new work. With regular exhibitions and over 100 local artists featured you are sure to find something new and you could very possibly leave with a new favourite Northern Irish artist. There is also lots of work from more familiar names to be explored and once again you will have the opportunity to purchase some of the art that you see so if you’re looking for a souvenir to take home with you, you might just find it here.
Photo Credits
Ulster Museum – Wikimedia Creative Commons
The MAC – Wikimedia Creative Commons
Belfast murals – Wikimedia Creative Commons
Eakin Gallery – Photo From Google Listing by owner
Guest Author Bio
Stuart Cooke
Stuart Cooke is from UniBaggage.com based in Belfast. They have helped hundreds of art loving tourists to ship their purchases back to their home countries.
Please Share Your Thoughts - Leave A Comment!