About Portobello by Michael Morris
Hidden away on Richmond Street South in the colourful heart of Portobello, Portobello by Michael Morris is a boutique Irish art gallery that feels like stumbling upon a secret artist's studio. Curated by the talented Michael Morris, this spot specialises in evocative works by Irish contemporaries such as Bob Lynn, Lucy Doyle, Michael Flaherty, Shane Johnson, Colin Flack, and Alison Kay. The gallery's cosy interior, with exposed brick walls and soft spotlights, highlights paintings that burst with colour and emotion, from dreamy seascapes to introspective figures. It's the kind of place where Portobello's laid-back canal vibe meets high-calibre creativity, drawing in locals from nearby Rathmines and visitors wandering from Leonard's Corner.
What to Expect
You'll find a curated selection of oils, acrylics, and mixed media exploring Irish identity, nature, and urban life. Exhibitions rotate seasonally, often featuring solo shows that delve deep into an artist's practice. Prices start at budget-friendly prints around €150, scaling to premium originals over €5,000. The space occasionally hosts intimate workshops or meet-the-artist events, fostering a community feel amid Dublin's art scene.
Insider Tips
Drop by on a Thursday afternoon when Michael himself might be around to share stories behind the canvases; follow it up with a spice bag at Spice of Life just across the road. From Portobello Harbour, it's a flat two-minute walk, perfect after a canal towpath ramble. Keep an eye on social media for pop-up events, and if buying, haggle politely for a local's discount. As one of the best galleries in Portobello Dublin, it offers unique Irish art that's perfect for your walls back home. Pair your visit with the 65 bus from city centre for easy access.
Stepping inside, the aroma of oil paints mingles with the faint hum of street life, making every visit sensory and memorable. This gallery captures Portobello's artistic pulse, proving you don't need Temple Bar for top-tier talent.