This exhibition showcased exceptional works by some of Ireland’s most renowned and influential artists including Jack B, Yeats, Paul Henry, Norah McGuinness, Gerard Dillon and Patrick Collins. The works explored the favourite themes of the landscape, inhabitants and traditions of Ireland, reflecting the broader development of Irish art in the 20th century through the contexts of national identity, international art influences and World War Two.
The Model and Niland collection is called after Sligo’s County Librarian and art collector, Nora Niland (b. 1913 d. 1988). The Niland Collection began when Nora borrowed three Jack B. Yeats' paintings for the 1960 opening of the Yeats' summer school and when the opportunity to purchase these paintings arose, she spent two years raising the funds to do so. These paintings formed the nucleus of what is now known as the Model and Niland Collection which consists of over 300 works, drawings and prints by some of the leading 20th century Irish artists including Paul Henry, Sean Keating, Louis le Brocquy, Mainie Jellett, Barrie Cooke and Dorothy Cross. The collection is significant for its sizeable number of works by Jack B. Yeats, many of which record experiences and memories of his time living in Sligo and its environs.