As the Royal Hotocultural Society of Ireland celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, President of the RHSI Robert S Myerscough, recalls its foundation and reports on its plan to renovate Russborough’s walled garden
The Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland, which this year celebrates its 200th anniversary is in a state of metamorphosis. The Charities Act 2009 and the subsequent establishment of the Charities Regulatory Authority in 2014 reviewed the law relating to charities and this has led to the establishment of the new Constitution for the RHSI and its governing board. In order to provide the level of accountability envisaged by the Act, and to increase confidence in the Society, it was decided by the members that the old Constitution, with its roots in the 19th century, should be replaced by a company limited by guarantee with a new Constitution.
In recording the traditional attire of female estate workers, Augusta Caroline Dillon of Clonbrock House, Co Galway, seemed presciently aware that her images would become historical document, writes Christiaan Corlett.
George Berkeley is famous for his contribution to philosophical thought, but less well known for his observations on art, some of which Peter Murray examines here.
Richard Gorman is marking his 70th year with an exhibition at Castletown, Co Kildare where his colourful abstracts animate the walls of its classical interior, writes Jennifer Goff.