Portraits of a Poet | The Portraiture of Seamus Heaney
Seamus Heaney (1939–2013)
Edward McGuire (1932–1986), Ulster Museum
Join us as we explore the painted layers of Seamus Heaney through portraiture past and present.
This talk examines how artists who knew, studied, or were inspired by Heaney's work captured his presence in portraiture. From early depictions to later, more reflective works, this talk traces a visual journey through Heaney's life—revealing how each artist approached not just his appearance, but his personality, character and mind.
Featuring works by Edward McGuire, Barrie Cooke, Louis le Brocquy and more, we will showcases a wide range of artistic styles. Expect everything from finely detailed drawings to bold, expressive paintings, as well as sculpture and printmaking. Together, these works—spanning oil, charcoal, mixed media and more—offer a rich and varied portrait of one of Ireland’s most influential poets.
Discover anew the intersection of art and poetry at Seamus Heaney: Listen Now Again on Saturday 30th at 2pm
If our team can be of any assistance, please contact us at heaneyexhibition@nli.ie
