Who we are

Hallahan & Welch is the result of years of collaboration between Paul Hallahan and Lee Welch, two artists with a longstanding commitment to the Irish arts scene. Both Hallahan and Welch have deep roots in artist-led initiatives, with Hallahan founding SOMA in Waterford and Welch establishing FOUR in Dublin in the late 2000s. These spaces emerged at a pivotal time in Ireland's arts industry, as the country navigated a financial crisis that challenged the stability of many cultural institutions. Despite the obstacles, SOMA and FOUR provided vital platforms for Irish artists, many of whom have since achieved significant international acclaim.

Throughout this period, both Hallahan and Welch continued to develop their own artistic practices alongside their work in these spaces. Following the closure of SOMA and FOUR, they each pursued their respective careers, supporting other artists and collaborating on a range of projects across Ireland. Their joint efforts began over a decade ago, taking various forms including group exhibitions and supporting the logistics of a commercial gallery that ultimately closed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, until now, they had refrained from formalising their partnership.

In 2024, Hallahan & Welch was officially launched, with the duo embarking on their most ambitious project yet: All Flowers in Time Bend Towards the Sun, a major group exhibition set to open at Dublin Castle’s Coach House Gallery in 2025. This exhibition will feature an impressive array of artists, including Nina Canell, Elizabeth Peyton, Lauren Conway, Christy Brown, Aleana Egan, Genieve Figgis, Samir Mahmood, Maria Maarbjerg, William McKeown, Mairead O’hEocha, Adrian O’Carroll, Linda Quinlan, Eva Rothschild, Anne Tallentire, Luke van Gelderen, Marcel Vidal and Michael Warren. Through this inaugural event, Hallahan & Welch aim to introduce a variety of new projects that will unfold throughout the coming year and beyond. As curators, artist collaborators, and visual arts event providers, Hallahan & Welch are poised to bring a fresh perspective and new energy to the Irish arts landscape.