The Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) has been opened in 1991 and is dedicated to modern Irish and international art from the 20th century onwards. Some critics have remarked that, since Ireland now has several galleries dedicated to modern art, the country should strive to produce the odd artist worthy of exhibiting there.
Be that as it may – art lovers will head here anyway and discover the odd gem.
For many occasional visitors the IMMA plays second fiddle to the building – the former Royal Hospital Kilmainham. Built in the 1680s to plans by Sir William Robinson in a French-Dutch style, the building was used to house deserving army veterans in old age.
The building was finished to a high standard (though the tower was an afterthought in 1701) – especially the hospital chapel with its delicate woodcarvings and stucco ceiling is an artistic contrast to the more modern exhibits.
