DUBLIN.- Tropical Popical and the National Gallery of Ireland launched R E N A I L S S A N C E; a display celebrating a yearlong creative partnership which saw the nail bar responding to both the permanent collection and temporary exhibitions at the Gallery.

R E N A I L S S A N C E sees the Millennium Wing Studio transformed into a tropical paradise, featuring an Irish fashion showcase from stylist & creative director Aisling Farinella and fashion photographer Eilish McCormick, detailed images of the multiple artistic responses, mixed media installations, real nail art and more!

The seeds for this collaboration began when Gallery Education Team connected with Tropical Popical on the internationally renowned 2017 exhibition, Vermeer and the Masters of Genre Painting. The result was Dutch Golden Details – a contemporary response to the 17th century masterpieces, which created wearable art, provoked dialogue around high and low artforms, and connected new audiences with both the Gallery and the nail bar. The relationship bloomed, and in June 2018, a yearlong creative partnership was announced. The partnership was designed to make collections and exhibitions more accessible, for historic artworks to provide rich inspiration for new creative practices and to continue the conversation on culture, critique, aesthetics and taste.

To support the display, a full public programme of activities and events have been devised for all ages and abilities. Including live fine art printing & wearable art creation by dynamic design duo Jill & Gill; nail art classes for kids and adults; a very special evening event with contributors from the international world of fashion; talks; tours and workshops - there is something on for everyone. Plus, for the duration of the display, the talented Tropical Popical team will work live in the studio on selected days, doing what they do best… utilizing the smallest of canvases to bring art to everyone’s fingertips, ensuring a R E N A I L S S A N C E.

Dublin nail bar Tropical Popical, founded in November 2012 by Andrea Horan, is renowned for creating miniature works of art on its clients’ nails. The salon offers a range of treatments including manicures, pedicures, nail extensions and nail art.