School Philosophy & History
The Rossnaree School of Art was founded in 2007 by artist Aisling Law. Having returned from a year in a Florence art school studying drawing and painting, Aisling saw the need to establish a similar art program in Ireland. It was her aim to bring back the positive aspects of what she saw at the academic schools.
The school is dedicated to teaching traditional techniques in figurative painting, drawing and sculpture, focusing on the human figure.
The Rossnaree School of Art is committed to the painting and drawing methods of the old masters, practised by artists throughout the ages, such as Velasquez, Titian, Sargent, and later by Picasso and David Hockney. While recognising contemporary art concerns, the school emphasises the benefits of academic education in training the eye to perceive shapes, values and proportion and focusing on skills and practical knowledge, currently missing in most art schools and institutes.
The Rossnaree School of Art brings trained tutors from leading schools in Florence and elsewhere to Ireland throughout the year. The modular courses inform students to vital academic skills in a short period of time. The knowledge and practice which they acquire here from the specific programmes will enable their hand and eye to function with more efficiency and confidence.
The school is situated in the grounds of the historic Rossnaree House in Co. Meath with magnificent views overlooking the ancient megalithic site, Newgrange. Students work in large studios under north facing natural light from skylights.
