schoolhouse for art
Since 1818 a small Schoolhouse nestled under the gaze of the clock tower in the
heart of the picturesque village of Enniskerry in Ireland’s ‘garden county’
Wicklow. This was a school for children, a house of learning where young minds
explored, examined and recited the rhymes and reasons of the unfolding world.
For almost two centuries its solid walls absorbed the chants and childish
chatter of thousands of young voices. In 2011, the children marched up to the
top of the hill to their perfect new school. The old schoolhouse fell silent for
two years and quietly waited while its guardians debated and deliberated over
the commercial and the common good… … ‘Schoolhouse for Art’ was deemed to be a
fitting substitute. Schoolhouse for Art is in essence a facility for the study
and exploration of the visual arts. Located in ‘the old schoolhouse’ in the
heart of Enniskerry village it is an exhibition space and a meeting place where
images and ideas mingle. It caters for all ages and all abilities. The former
school playground is a natural arena facing the clock tower, a three-dimensional
canvas to display an evolving gallery of large pieces of sculpture. The
‘Schoolhouse for Art’ is also a host to visiting artists from across the globe
who want to paint the surrounding inspiring countryside and experience the
unparalleled Irish hospitality.