Originally from Limerick, Dermod O’Brien spent time studying paintings in Europe, particularly in the Louvre, following which he made the decision to paint full time. He studied under Charles Verlat at the Antwerp Academy, where he met Walter Osborne. O’Brien continued his studies at the Academie Julian in Paris and later at the Slade.
After completing these studies he shared a studio in Chelsea with Henry Tonks for a time, before moving to Dublin in 1901 and was elected a full member of t
he RHA six years later. O’Brien went on to serve as president of the Academy from 1910-1945. O’Brien had a significant role in the Irish art world during his life, taking the role of Governor of the National Gallery, supporting Hugh Lane’s project to secure a premises for a modern art gallery, and playing an active part in organising Oireachtas exhibitions, including the first which took place in 1906.
Dermod O’Brien's work was included in 'A Celebration of Irish Art and Modernism' exhibition (2011). Please click here to view the catalogue.
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