​​​​​​​Swap the Greens for the Galleries as Art and Soul Returns to The Culloden Estate and Sp

26th June 2025

Hot on the heels of The Open in Portrush (July 17-20), golf fans can swap the greens for galleries as Art and Soul returns to the Culloden Estate & Spa in Rory McIlroy’s hometown of Holywood from July 27 to August 31.

Among this year’s highlights is a playful nod to the sport through Patrick O’Reilly’s much-loved bronze bear sculptures, including “Caddy Bear” and “Beyond the Rough”.

New to the exhibition this year are works by internationally acclaimed sculptors Philip Jackson, Sophie Ryder, Matteo Lo Greco, Michael Ayrton and Lorenzo Quinn.

Hosted by Gormleys Fine Art, the exhibition features over 250 pieces, with the larger outdoor pieces displayed throughout the Culloden’s 12 acres of landscaped gardens overlooking Belfast Lough consistently among the most popular attractions.

Guests can discover works from some of the most celebrated Irish and international artists, including Ian Pollock, Eamonn Ceannt, Giacinto Bosco, Bob Quinn, Paddy Campbell, Sandra Bell and John Fitzgerald.

The event also features iconic names from the international art world, with works by Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst, Banksy, Julian Opie, and Salvador Dalí on display.

“Holywood is home to Rory McIlroy and one of Ireland’s most iconic hotels - the perfect setting to showcase some of the most celebrated artists of our time,” said Oliver Gormley of Gormleys Fine Art.

“Art and Soul offers a unique opportunity to enjoy world-class art in an extraordinary setting, and with The Open taking place just up the road in Portrush, it’s a fantastic time to visit Northern Ireland.”

This is Gormleys’ thirteenth major art and sculpture event, with the Culloden Estate & Spa hosting the exhibition for over a decade.

“Art and Soul brings something truly special to the Culloden,” said Howard Hastings, Chairman of the Culloden Estate & Spa.

“We’re thrilled to welcome guests to explore this exceptional celebration of creativity and culture in one of the most beautiful settings in Ireland.”

As part of the experience, the Culloden will offer a specially curated Art and Soul Afternoon Tea, alongside daily guided tours of the exhibition.

The exhibition, which is supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, is free to attend and open to the public daily from 11am–7pm. Luxury overnight stays with breakfast are available starting from £243 per person sharing.

More information about tour bookings and overnight stays can be found at www.cullodenestateandspa.com and gormleys.ie

Image descriptions:

Patrick O’Reilly, Caddy Bear, Bronze, Unique from a Series, 30 x 32 x 29cm, £5,500

One of Patrick O’Reilly’s iconic bronze bear sculptures, Caddy Bear, brings a playful golfing spirit to Art and Soul at the Culloden Estate & Spa in Holywood, just days after The Open in Portrush.

Patrick O’Reilly, Beyond the Rough, Bronze, Unique from a Series, 30 x 32 x 29cm, £5,500

Patrick O’Reilly’s Beyond the Rough is one of two golf-inspired bronze bears featured at Art and Soul, which runs from July 27 – August 31 at the Culloden Estate & Spa, overlooking Belfast Lough.

Patrick O’Reilly I'll be Here, Bronze, Bronze, 155 x 160 x 75cm, £64,000

This new sculpture depicts his bear sat on a bench inviting the viewer to take a seat and implies a sense of comfort, companionship, and a quiet promise of being there for you. This aligns with his bears representing innocence, trust, and companionship.

O’Reilly’s bear sculpture series explores deep themes through the universally comforting image of a bear. Inspired by childhood teddy bears, the sculptures represent innocence, companionship, and trust, while also acknowledging the bear's sheer power and gentleness.  O'Reilly uses these bears to subtly depict the human condition, touching on feelings like loneliness and resilience, often with a humorous touch. The "stitching" on the bears symbolises human fragility and vulnerability.

Ian Pollock Through Summer Air, Bronze and Stainless Steel, 105 x 129 x 108cm, £16,650

Ian Pollock's bronze sculpture of eleven swallows features as a significant part of his work, symbolising hope, renewal, and new beginnings due to the swallows' association with spring. Their migratory nature represents journeys and freedom, while their return to nesting spots signifies loyalty, fidelity, and the concept of returning home.

The swallows also embody adaptability and resilience through their agile flight, and are often seen as omens of good fortune and protection. Being social birds, they can also represent community and connection. Through these sculptures, Pollock explores universal themes of life's journey, hope, and humanity's link to the natural world.