Opening on Friday, 25 September, Saltwater II – An Exhibition of Irish Surf Art brings together a compelling collection of work by 20 artists, exploring Ireland’s relationship with the Atlantic and the lives, traditions and communities shaped by it.
Following the inaugural Saltwater exhibition in 2025, this second edition looks beyond surfing alone to consider the sea’s wider influence on coastal life, culture and creativity. From the freedom and physical energy of riding waves to the quieter realities of living beside an unpredictable ocean, the exhibition presents varied responses to life on Ireland’s Atlantic edge.
With artwork selected through an open call, the exhibition is rooted in the distinctive landscape and character of Ireland’s West coast. While some works capture the movement, exhilaration and community surrounding surf culture, others reflect on local identity, memory and the resilience of coastal communities. The exhibition also considers the vulnerability of the coastline and the growing importance of protecting Ireland’s marine and shoreline environments.
Working across painting, print, photography, sculpture and mixed media, participating artists include Barry Britton, Easkey Britton, Tiffany Budd, Maria Cadden, Darragh Gorman, Rowan Huber, Lisa Hughes, M.A. Littler, Katie Lodge, Kevin Lowery, Lauren Martin, Eibhlin McCarry, Gavin McCrea, Síofra Ní Bhroin, Kate O’Neill, Tess Shaw, Helen Shepherd, Síle Walsh, Kai Wilmott and Gillian Wright.
The Kevin Lowery Gallery invites the public to meet the participating artists at the exhibition opening and Saltwater Festival launch on Friday, 25 September at 6pm.
Saltwater II – An Exhibition of Irish Surf Art runs at the Kevin Lowery Gallery from 25 September to 11 October.
Event Details
Exhibition opening: Friday, 25 September 2026 at 6pm
Exhibition dates: Friday, 25 September–Sunday, 11 October 2026
Opening hours: 10am–5.30pm
Location: Kevin Lowery Gallery, Unit 10, Bundoran Retail Park, Bundoran F94 KH94
