VAN Nov/Dec 2026 issue channels a retrospective impulse to look back across several decades. In columns, Matt Packer examines the expansion of Ireland’s visual art infrastructure during the Celtic Tiger era, and we reprint a report from the SSI/VAN archive, first published in 1987, outlining a symposium in Limerick, organised by the Sculptors’ Society of Ireland (SSI).
Patricia Bickers reflects on the 50th anniversary and 500th issue of Art Monthly, while Sinéad Keogh’s curation of the 24th edition of TULCA Festival of Visual Arts marks 50years since the inception of punk. Joanne Laws interviews Sinéad about this “punk and women-led proposition” exploring contemporary female rage, DIY culture, and collective action. This issue also includes a triple-page Organisation Profile, as John Graham recounts some personal highlights from 60 years of Project Arts Centre, which began as a three-week festival at the Gate Theatre in November 1966.
Among other feature articles for this issue, Aengus Woods reflects on eight standout shows in Ireland this year, Thomas Pool reports on VAI Get Together 2026, and Member Profiles explore recent exhibitions by Danny Foley and Maïa Nunes. This issue also includes an extended Critique section, offering timely coverage of exhibitions around the country: Hillsboro Fine Art, Royal Society of Antiquaries Ireland, CCA Derry ~ Londonderry, the MAC, Ballina Arts Centre, Regional Cultural Centre, and Lismore Castle Arts.
For more information see link below.
visualartists.ie/van-ebulletin/out-now-november-december-2026-issue-of-the-visual-artists-news-sheet
