Kerry Artist Shortlisted for AIB Portrait Prize
Kerry Artist Shortlisted for Prestigious AIB Portrait Prize
Table of Contents
Published August 21, 2025
Celebrating Irish Portraiture: A Dual Competition
The National Gallery of Ireland is preparing to host a compelling showcase of contemporary portraiture with the upcoming AIB Portrait Prize and AIB Young Portrait Prize. These competitions, open to artists across the island of Ireland and Irish artists abroad, consistently attract a high level of talent, with over 300 submissions received annually according to Visit dublin.
Clodagh O’Leary’s Work Recognized
Among the 26 artists shortlisted for the main AIB Portrait Prize is Kerry-based artist Clodagh O’Leary. Her striking photograph, ‘Never Be Without Your Horse,’ has caught the eye of the judging panel and will be featured in the exhibition. The exhibition will run at the National gallery of Ireland in Dublin from November 8th, 2025, to March 15th, 2026.
Significant Prizes for Winning Artists
The stakes are high for the AIB Portrait Prize. The overall winner, to be announced on November 25th, will receive a ample cash prize of €15,000, alongside a €5,000 commission to create a new piece for the National Portrait collection. Two highly commended artists will each receive €1,500. The judging panel for the main prize includes artist Gareth Reid, Professor Emily Mark-FitzGerald of UCD, and Dr. Barbara Dawson, Director of the Hugh lane Gallery as reported by Radio Kerry.
Nurturing Young Talent: The AIB Young Portrait Prize
Running alongside the main competition, the AIB Young Portrait Prize provides a platform for emerging artists aged eighteen and under. Now in its seventh year, the Young Portrait Prize is divided into four age categories, with five winners - one from each category – receiving a bespoke art box and a cash prize. The overall winner in the Young Portrait Prize will be awarded a personalized wooden box filled with high-quality art materials and a €500 cash prize.
Judging the AIB Young Portrait Prize this year are Cian O’Brien of COBA: Arts, artist Neil-Jack Alphonsus Hamilton, and artist Alice Rekab.