Press Release

Dr Mansergh – “IMMA’s 2010 programme – imaginative, ambitious and wide ranging”

Dr Martin Mansergh TD, Minister of State with responsibility for the Arts, this afternoon (27 January 2010) launched the Irish Museum of Modern Art’s programme for 2010. Highlights of the programme feature an exhibition based on the work of American composer Morton Feldman and the many artists in his circle; displays marking new donations to IMMA and a special exhibition promoting engagement in the visual arts by people with disabilities. There will also be a new initiative designed to enhance primary schools pupils’ enjoyment of the Museum’s collection. Solo exhibitions will feature work by Cuban-American Jorge Pardo and Irish artist Anne Tallentire; Belgian-born experimental artist Francis Alÿs and Spanish painter, Ferran García Sevilla.

Speaking at the launch of the 2010 programme, Dr Martin Mansergh TD, said: “The vital role which arts and culture plays in both fostering and demonstrating our national spirit of innovation and creativity cannot be overstated.” The Minister added: “This year’s IMMA programme is ambitious, imaginative and wide ranging - all characteristics which are now synonymous with our Irish Museum of Modern Art. I am delighted to have this opportunity to show my support for the level of initiative and sheer hard work which the IMMA 2010 programme represents. I congratulate the Chairperson, Eoin McGonigal, SC, Board Members, Director Enrique Juncosa and all the staff at IMMA for all their achievements to date.”

Dr Mansergh said he was also pleased to see a “programme of free guided tours, talks, lectures and seminars, gallery and studio based workshops and visits, all designed to make IMMA’s work ever more accessible to all ages and groups.” New themed art packs containing images of artworks will be made available for children at primary school level in 2010 and 2011 which can be used as a visual resource in classrooms. The artists’ residency programme will host 15 artists who will live and work at IMMA. In addition, IMMA’s National Programme which allows selected works from its Collection to be shown in a number of arts centres around Ireland will continue in 2010.

Additionally, the Altered Images exhibition which allows groups and individuals with disabilities to access artworks through a variety of multi sensory devices returns to the Museum in 2010, following its tenure in Clonmel and Ballina, (County Mayo) during 2009.

Issued by Colin Toomey, 01 6313838

See www.imma.ie for more details.