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The Ib Jorgensen Collection 11
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November 2014
also reflected in the extensive and scholarly Jorgensen Gallery exhibitions of
works by George Campbell, Norah McGuinness and Grace Henry, in which
projects he was able to call upon the expertise of Sile Connaughton-Deeny.
Alongside this, Ib quickly began to build an impressive stable of contemporary
painters and sculptors. Guided by his own eye and self-belief, he championed
Patrick Pye and held several notable exhibitions of new work by this fine painter,
as well as showing many younger Irish artists and introducing several British
artists to Dublin. Many artists gained from Ib’s insight as well as his advice on
presentation, framing and much else. It is telling that Kevin Gaines, who worked
for Ib for a number of years, was encouraged by him in launching his career as
an sculptor.
Remarkably, despite the pressures and commitments of operating a gallery
throughout this past decade and a half, particularly with several changes of
premises, Ib’s energy and enthusiasm has never flagged. His work ethic is ex-
traordinary and he sets the highest standards for himself as well as those around
him. Ib’s belief in the work he shows has always been evident and perhaps it
is this that has maintained his passion to continue to present it to the public.
While the major National Museum exhibition devoted to Ib’s designs secured
his reputation as a couturier, his influence as a gallerist endures in the collections
he has helped form and the artists whose careers he has influenced.
Dickon Hall
2014