Séamus Kealy appointed director of Royal Hibernian Academy
Effective July 2026, Séamus Kealy has been named the new director of the Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts. With over 20 years of leadership experience in prominent public art institutions across Canada, Austria, and Ireland, Kealy is a globally recognized museum director, curator, artist, and writer. He has curated upwards of 120 international exhibitions and has been instrumental in establishing artist residencies, awards, and innovative art initiatives. This appointment signifies a bold new direction for the RHA, enhancing its status as a hub for contemporary art both in Ireland and beyond. The announcement was made by RHA President Sinéad Ní Mhaonaigh following a rigorous international selection process.
Key facts
- Séamus Kealy appointed director of Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts
- Appointment effective July 2026
- Kealy has over two decades of international leadership experience
- He has curated more than 120 international exhibitions
- He established artist residencies, awards, and pioneering art projects
- Kealy has led public art institutions in Canada, Austria, and Ireland since 2005
- RHA President Sinéad Ní Mhaonaigh announced the appointment
- The search was competitive and international
Entities
Artists
- Séamus Kealy
Institutions
- Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts
Locations
- Ireland
- Canada
- Austria