From street art to fine art, photography to sculpture, illustration to craft and performance, the visual art scene in Belfast is flourishing, making the city a magnet for art enthusiasts.
On a short break in the city you can dip into the numerous galleries showcasing contemporary and classical art by local and international artists.
The award-winning MAC in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter stages exhibitions, theatre performances and experimental works and presents a rolling programme of eclectic art exhibitions. From 8 November to 30 March a major new exhibition will trace the history of the flower in art.
At the Belfast Exposed photography gallery, you can see exhibitions of work by emerging artists alongside some of the major names in photography today. Its archive gallery holds over a million images charting over 40 years of Belfast’s social, cultural, and political life.
Other top galleries include The Golden Thread Gallery, a member of the Plus Tate network, and the Ulster Museum, which showcases international touring exhibitions as well as its own vast collection of historical and contemporary material.
On the first Thursday of every month, many of Belfast’s galleries and studios open late to give visitors access to some of the finest visual art that the city has to offer. The Late Night Art experiences are always different and are a great way to get a taste for what the city offers. Download the Belfast Art Map to guide you or sign up for the Belfast Art Gallery Walking Tour.
If street art is your thing, Belfast is your city. With a long history of expression through art, captured in the famous ‘Troubles’ murals, Belfast is now a renowned hotspot for contemporary street art. A guided walking tour reveals the stories behind the vibrant images.
Visitors to the city can also engage informally with art as several pubs, restaurants and hotels champion local artists. room2 hometel displays eco-conscious design from innovative artists and producers in its décor and also has an art gallery showcasing more work by local artists. The hometel is dedicated to creating environments that have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of visitors as well as operating on a low carbon, low energy and zero waste basis.
For a glimpse of Belfast’s maritime heritage, the Titanic Hotel displays an exclusive collection of 500 artworks and photographs throughout the building celebrating the golden age of ocean travel.
A stay in Belfast should include an evening in the lively Cathedral Quarter where street art adds a colourful dimension to the ambiance. The Duke of York pub is located in Commercial Court, one of the most photographed streets in the city with its light installation of hanging umbrellas and the mural of famous Northern Irish people.
And the John Hewitt, one of Belfast’s most popular bars, is a committed supporter of the local arts scene. Best known as a music venue, the bar also hosts eleven commission-free art exhibitions per year and strives to be a part of as many local festivals as possible.
