An art battle in the heart of Dublin

Seán Hillen (b. 1961, Newry, Northern Ireland) is a contemporary Irish artist renowned mostly for his distinctive photo-collages that blend documentary photography with surreal, often satirical elements. His work navigates themes of identity, conflict, and cultural mythology, employing humor and irony to address serious subjects.

Ishmael Claxton was born in New York and living in Dublin for 10 years. Ishmael turned to photography as a means of expression and embarked on his career as a professional visual artist. He continues to challenge his audience by raising awareness about issues like in ‘Migration/ Integration’ series and Capall Gang series. By holding a mirror up to society, his aim is to make sense of the every changing world. Ishmael is one of the cofounders of ÍOVA Club, a photographer-led club that gives voice to image makers. The group has presented three Culture Night group shows, presentations, gallery visits all to help build the photography community in Ireland.

Ishmael has exhibited widely, both in Ireland and internationally. In 2023 his work was included in 39 exhibitions which included Outset Gallery, 126 Galway, Rua Red Gallery, Carlow Visual, and Ulster Museum. His portrait of artist Seán Hillen was selected for the Lens Culture Portrait Choice Awards 2023. His work was featured in a solo exhibition in Gallery X, Dublin in 2022, Round Rabbit, Dublin in 2023 and National Concert Hall and the Irish Georgian Society in 2024.