Intelligent and considered art

Aileen Corkery reviews the new publication from the Irish Musuem of Modern Art – The Collection

IRISH MUSEUM OF MODERN ART
THE COLLECTION

Published by IMMA 2005
Edited by Marguerite O'Molloy
Designed by Vermillion, Dublin

Essays by Enrique Juncosa and Catherine Marshall

It is immediately apparent by the cover of the Irish Museum of Modern Art's (IMMA) recently published book on its collection that IMMA is moving into a new era. The selection of Michael Craig-Martin's astonishingly vibrant painting, 'Eye of the Storm', indicates a refreshing sense of confidence, strength and, not to be underrated, especially in the artworld – accessibility, on the part of IMMA. Once opened, this assertive approach is not diminished.

Presented in an attractive, straightforward manner, the publication introduces the reader to a sampling of what IMMA has in its collection, but more importantly, where it would like to go with the collection. The artworks themselves are given pride of place with a balanced array of good-sized photographs of the works as well as outstanding installation shots that, in turn, not only highlight the architectural beauty of the landmark building, but showcase the multitude of spaces (both indoors and outdoors) for exhibition. Each artwork is accompanied by a brief but considered text with introductory essays by director, Enrique Juncosa and senior curator, Catherine Marshall.

The selection of artists and artworks is inspiring as it reflects the diversity of the collection and, through its recent acquisitions, a strategy for building for the future. The Irish comtemporary artists who have played a significant role in building international recognition for the visual arts in Ireland are all well represented including: Dorothy Cross, Kathy Prendergast and Willie Doherty. Younger Irish artists are also acknowledged as they too make their own way into the international artworld including: Gerard Byrne, Paddy Jolley, Phil Collins, Grace Weir, Caroline McCarthy and Daphne Wright. Works from international artists continue to go from strength to strength with recent purchases including: Gary Hume, Vic Muniz, Cristina Iglesias, Thomas Ruff and Rebecca Horn. However, more information on the artists selected would have been appreciated .

What is truly remarkable about this publication on the IMMA collection is that for the first time it contains an important body of work by one of the most acclaimed artists practising in the world today who was born in County Roscommon and now lives and works in Dublin- James Coleman. The significance of the acquisitions of his is immeasurable as anyone who is a fan of Coleman knows that up until now one would have to leave the country to see his work. Thanks to Enrique Juncosa and the Heritage Fund this is no longer the case. From the new comer to visual arts in Ireland through to the seasoned director of an international contemporary art museum in Tokyo, each will find value and ideas in this intelligent and considered publication.

Aileen Corkery
Independent curator