Robert Ballagh
1943-
Robert Ballagh was born in Dublin in 1943. He studied architecture at Dublin Institute of Technology after which he worked for a time as an engineering draughtsman. Ballagh began painting in 1967 and by 1969 he had his first solo show at The Brown Thomas Gallery Dublin. In the same year he was chosen to represent Ireland at the Paris Biennale. With painting as his main activity, Ballagh was also a successful graphic designer, famously creating national banknotes, stamps and famous set designs in this role. In 1981 Ballagh became the first chairman of Aosdana and is still known for championing the rights of the artist and their equal status in society.From portraiture, montages to political scenes, Ballagh’s work is unmistakeable for their stylised, photographic, Pop Art quality.Sheridan Le Fanu, demonstrates to the viewer a number of his qualities, his mastery of paint, an interest in architecture and theatrics. Ballagh was particularly accomplished at portraiture, painting some of the most iconic figures in Irish cultural life. A fine example of Dr. Noel Browne by the artist can be seen in the National Gallery of Ireland.