Dublin's renowned Hugh Lane Gallery will close its doors on September 28 for an extensive three-year renovation project aimed at upgrading the facility to modern museum standards while ensuring the safe preservation of its world-class art collection.

The Dublin City Council announced that the comprehensive refurbishment will coincide with the construction of a new central library for Dublin's city center, which will be directly connected to the gallery through an innovative architectural link. This ambitious project is part of a broader initiative to transform Parnell Square North into a major cultural district.

"The refurbishment is part of a major investment in Parnell Square North which will reshape the square into a significant cultural quarter and enrich the experience of Dublin's citizens and visitors to the city," Dublin City Council stated in an official announcement.

The gallery houses an impressive collection featuring masterworks by internationally acclaimed artists including Francis Bacon, Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Sean Scully, and Harry Clarke. During the closure period, the gallery's professional conservation team will carefully pack and relocate the entire collection to museum-standard storage facilities to ensure proper care and preservation.

The renovation project will focus on upgrading the gallery's security systems and environmental controls to meet 21st-century museum standards. According to Dublin City Council, these improvements "will ensure the preservation of the collection for future generations and will enhance our ability to secure significant international loans for major temporary exhibitions."

One of the gallery's most notable features, Francis Bacon's reconstructed studio, will remain on-site throughout the renovation process and will be fully protected during the temporary closure period. The art museum operates under Dublin City Council and its wholly-owned subsidiary, the Hugh Lane Trust.

Dr. Barbara Dawson, Director of the Hugh Lane Gallery, described the initiative as a "very exciting project" that will specifically upgrade the gallery's 1930s wing. Speaking in a recent interview, Dr. Dawson explained that the art-deco building "really hasn't been touched since 1933" and emphasized that the renovation "will upgrade it to 21st century" standards.

The director highlighted that this "tremendous addition" to the gallery will create sufficient space to display their complete painting collection and facilitate international loan agreements for major exhibitions. She particularly emphasized the unique connection between the new city library and the gallery, which will offer visitors "a unique experience across art and literature" when the facility reopens.

Dr. Dawson acknowledged that realizing "all these ambitious plans" will require time and patience, but stressed that the project represents "a great investment in Parnell Square." The renovation plans include a Phase 2 development that will further enhance the buildings adjacent to the gallery.

"The gallery will remain as beautiful as ever with its 1930s artifacts and architectural features but it will be completely upgraded," Dr. Dawson added, assuring the public that the historical character of the building will be preserved while incorporating modern museum technology and facilities.

The Hugh Lane Gallery conservation team has already begun the meticulous process of safely packing and transporting the gallery's renowned collection to ensure that "the public's collection is being cared for to the highest standards and will be ready for display when the gallery reopens."

This major cultural investment project reflects Dublin's commitment to maintaining its status as a significant European cultural destination while preserving and enhancing access to important artistic heritage for both residents and international visitors.