An exhibition exploring pivotal moments in the history of the National Gallery of Ireland opened to the public on Thursday 30th January 2014, on the occasion of the Gallery’s 150th anniversary.

‘From the Archive: The Story of the National Gallery of Ireland’ features rarely seen material documenting the development of the Gallery from 1864 to the present day, and focuses on the important contribution of patrons and benefactors to the development of a national collection.

It shows over 100 items from the NGI Archive collections: historical records, registers, publications, photographs, correspondence and architectural plans that are an integral part of the history of this national cultural institution. The exhibition also shows minute books from Board meetings, detailed records relating to the development of the collection, correspondence and papers concerning various directors, staff, individual supporters, and characters that have shaped its history.

The exhibition is on view in the Print Gallery and continues until 14 December 2014. Admission is free. It is complemented by a series of free talks and an online resource on the Gallery’s website.