Explore Dark Creativity at Limerick’s Haunting Art Exhibition

A transformative dark art exhibition, titled Tinte Marbh (Dead Fire), is currently showcasing the depths of creative expression in Limerick, Ireland. Hosted at the Treaty City Brewery on Nicholas Street, the exhibition is a key feature of the annual Samhain Halloween Festival. It runs until November 3, inviting art enthusiasts to experience a unique intersection of myth, metal, and the macabre.

Organised by Lumen Street Theatre in partnership with overdrive.ie, Tinte Marbh highlights the work of some of Ireland’s most prominent alternative and dark arts creators. The exhibition is described by its organisers as “a celebration of dark creativity – a fire that refuses to die out.” This sentiment captures the essence of the event, as artists channel the spirit of Samhain into transformative works that evoke both intrigue and unease.

Featured Artists and Their Unique Vision

The exhibition features a lineup of acclaimed artists, each bringing their own distinctive vision to the event. Among them is Ken Coleman, an internationally recognised artist from Lisnagry. Known for his post-humanist, mixed-media works, Coleman has collaborated with well-known musical acts including Morbid Angel and The Cranberries. His art merges painting, sculpture, and innovative 3D technology to explore beauty within darkness.

Another notable contributor is Colin Bolger of Dabúlga Design, who expertly blends Celtic heritage with modern illustration. Bolger reinterprets myth and folklore through a symbolic lens, creating transformative pieces for bands such as zhOra and Ten Ton Slug. His work invites audiences to experience traditional narratives in a contemporary context.

Illustrator Roseanne Hayes, known for her involvement in the Siege of Limerick Festival, presents visceral, hand-drawn digital works deeply rooted in mythology, horror, and occult themes. Her captivating visuals resonate with the festival’s dark spirit.

Multidisciplinary artist Stephen Lindsay, known as The Iron Parasite, works across photography, illustration, and photo-manipulation. His focus on conceptual designs has earned him a reputation for creating striking visuals for album covers, logos, and merchandise.

Completing the lineup is Gary Ronaldson from Bite Radius Designs. Based in Dublin, Ronaldson has spent over 13 years collaborating with prominent names in the underground metal scene, such as Sepultura and Napalm Death. His work showcases a range of styles, from cartoony to hyper-realistic, and reflects his extensive background in classical animation.

A Cultural Experience Not to Be Missed

Tinte Marbh serves as an invitation for audiences to explore the collision of art and culture in the heart of Limerick’s medieval quarter. The exhibition stands out not just for its artistic merit but also for its ability to engage the community in a celebration of creativity surrounding Halloween.

As visitors immerse themselves in this sanctuary of shadows, they are encouraged to reflect on the deeper meanings behind the artwork. The exhibition is not only a showcase of individual talent but also a celebration of collective cultural identity and the stories that resonate within.

For those in Limerick or planning to visit before the exhibition concludes on November 3, Tinte Marbh promises a haunting experience that intertwines dark creativity with the rich traditions of Samhain.