George IV processing through Dublin, National Gallery of Ireland.

Before the 'Brexit' from Eire - a look at vice regal dublin

The Office of Public Works invites the public to discover the Making Majesty exhibition at Dublin Castle through a series of talks and events running until 28th April .  The exhibition explores the shaping of the royal and viceregal image at Dublin Castle through grand architecture, stately ceremonies and fine furnishings. Through a series of engaging events, pop-up talks, and a panel discussion, life in and around the Castle will be explored. 
Talks will explore diverse subjects, including  'Dining and Dancing at Dublin Castle', what was in the kitchens of Dublin Castle in Georgian times, and how food, music and architecture were combined to produce extraordinary entertainments. 'Buying Irish at the Viceregal Court' reveals that this is not just a modern marketing campaign but that several viceroys of Ireland adopted a vigorous ‘buy Irish’ policy at the Castle. This contrasts with the notion of the Court as an Anglo-centric entity that relied on British skills and examples. Corrie Tubman will provide a fascinating behind-the-scenes account of her year spent conserving the National Gallery of Ireland’s painting of King George IV processing through Dublin by William Turner de Lond. This colossal work of art is currently on display at Making Majesty.
As the exhibition draws to a close a panel discussion will examine 'The Weight of History - Dublin Castle Then and Now', and consider Dublin Castle’s position in terms of Irish history, politics and society. While Dublin Castle itself is generally associated with centuries of British rule, the exhibition focuses on the particular motivations behind the building’s grand regal designs, something we often forget about today. Given the current spotlight on independence-related events from a century ago and Brexit-related events right now, this Banter discussion, hosted by Jim Carroll, will look at the responsibilities and challenges of dealing with Dublin Castle’s past in 2018.