Laois students explore art and history in Dublin

Portlaoise College’s fifth and sixth year students had the wonderful opportunity to attend the launch of the travelling panel exhibition, ‘Casimir Markievicz: A Polish Artist in Bohemian Dublin (1903–1913)’ at the Royal Irish Academy. Through a series of inspiring lectures and speeches, students learned more about the fascinating life and legacy of “the Polish Irishman”.

Picture above: Portlaoise College students with Patrick Quigley, Chairman of the Irish Polish Society and author of several books on Irish-Polish relations and history

In Ireland, the name “Markievicz” immediately brings to mind Constance Markievicz, the iconic Irish revolutionary. This travelling exhibition, however, shines a light on her husband, Casimir Markievicz (1874–1932) — a Polish painter, playwright, and larger-than-life creative figure. It explores his artistic career and his role within Dublin’s bohemian circles in the years leading up to the Revolution.

Although a lesser-known figure today, Casimir was at the heart of Dublin’s artistic world in the early 20th century. His circle included influential contemporaries such as W.B. Yeats, George Russell (AE), William Orpen, Hugh Lane, and Beatrice Elvery. Together with Constance, he played a key role in establishing several of the city’s most important cultural institutions, including the United Arts Club and the Municipal Gallery.

Pictured above:  Portlaoise College students with Artur Michalski Chargé d’affaires of Poland to Ireland

The exhibition also highlights the connections between Ireland, Poland, and Ukraine, where Casimir’s family lived, and examines how Polish nationalism influenced Constance Markievicz’s own political outlook.

“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Polish Embassy, the Royal Irish Academy, and all the individuals and institutions involved in making this event possible. We are very grateful for the invitation and for the wonderful opportunity it provided our students to engage with such an inspiring exhibition,” stated Portlaoise College Deputy Principal, Patrick Travers. 

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The panel exhibition features compelling examples of Casimir Markievicz’s artwork, alongside artefacts and photographs from major public and private collections in Ireland and Poland. Together, these bring Casimir’s creative legacy back into focus, highlighting his important role in Dublin’s cultural scene on the eve of the Revolution.