About MART Gallery
As a true gem tucked into the Old Fire Station on Rathmines Road Lower, MART Gallery has been pulsing with creative energy since 2007. Founded by artists Matthew Nevin and Ciara Scanlan, this not-for-profit space champions contemporary visual art right in the heart of Rathmines. You'll find over 30 artist studios buzzing behind the scenes, alongside rotating exhibitions that showcase bold, thought-provoking works from emerging and established Irish talents. The red-brick facade whispers of Dublin's firefighting history, now reborn as a haven for innovation; step inside and breathe in the scent of fresh paint and polished wood floors. Rathmines locals love it for its community vibe, hosting talks, workshops, and launches that draw crowds from nearby Palmerston Park picnickers to Dodder Valley walkers. Whether it's site-specific installations or multimedia pieces, MART captures the gritty soul of Dublin's art scene without the Temple Bar hype.
What to Expect
Expect dynamic solo and group shows changing every few weeks; recent highlights include explorations of identity and urban landscapes. The gallery space spans multiple rooms in the historic building, with natural light flooding through tall windows perfect for photography. Events like artist Q&As and open studios happen regularly, often free; check the calendar for poetry readings or performance art. It's intimate, so you can chat with creators over a cuppa from the pop-up cafe. Combine it with a stroll to Rathmines Village for fish and chips at Carry Gerry's, just a five-minute walk away.
Insider Tips
Visit on a Saturday afternoon when studios open to the public; snag a spot for the free artist tours. Pair your trip with a coffee at Two Pups on Rathmines Road Upper, their flat whites are legendary. If driving, park at the Swan Centre multi-storey nearby. Follow MART on socials for last-minute openings; exhibitions sell out fast. For families, kid-friendly workshops pop up during holidays. This spot outshines flashier Dublin galleries with its authentic, grassroots feel; it's where Rathmines' creative neighbourhood spirit shines brightest.