Colour And Light: Caring For Turner’s Watercolours

National Gallery of Ireland, Merrion Sq West and Clare St Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm (Thurs 9.30am-8.30pm), Sun noon-5.30pm 01-6615133 nationalgallery.ie

The National Gallery’s annual January exhibition of its collection of Joseph Mallord William Turner watercolours is not only a rich experience, it’s a great seasonal ritual. A visit to the show makes a good start to the New Year, and you’re guaranteed to see something new in Turner’s work every time. The Print Gallery, with its subdued, localiSed lighting, is an exceptionally pleasant environment in which to view the work. And, of course, it’s free.

This year’s thematic approach has to do with the care of the watercolours, from the Victorian era to the present. The display relating to conservation will incorporate the wood cabinet commissioned by Henry Vaughan, the man who bequeathed 31 Turners to the gallery, to hold the work. The rationale was to protect them from injurious daylight. Also on view will be a selection of silhouettes and miniature from the Mary A McNeill Bequest.

Can’t See That? Catch This

Ducking Paddy Cork County Library Bldg, Exhibition space (adjacent to County Hall), Carrigrohane Rd Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm Until Jan 21