The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
A PAINTING by Ennis artist Mick O’Dea is getting the royal treatment in its brand new home. His painting of the Grace O’Malley Tall Ship is now on display in the offices of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco at the Yacht Club Monaco.
The artwork which was commissioned by Robert Lee Mulcahy is on permanent loan and on display at the yacht club.
The painting was purchased by The ATLANTIC Youth Trust, a charity focused on youth development through working with tall ships. Earlier this year the charity purchased a 164ft tradewind schooner, now named the Grace O’Malley after the famous Pirate Queen.
Following a refit of the vessel the charity aims to provide on board training to 1,000 young people annually from all socio-economic backgrounds in sailing, navigation and communication skills development.
Speaking to the Clare Champion, artist O’Dea said, “I’m proud to be associated with such a worthy cause. The complete refurbishment of Ireland’s new tall ship will enable future generations of young people to experience at first hand what being a member of a crew on such a fabulous vessel is all about.”
He added it is “an honour” that Prince Albert II has chosen to hang the painting in his office at the Yacht Club of Monaco. “It is a symbol of the close ties that exist between the principality and our nation.”
Currently at the Harland and Wolfe shipyard in Belfast, the Grace O’Malley will be in service by late Spring 2023.
Commenting on the commission of the painting, philanthropist fundraiser Robert Lee Mulcahy confirmed, “From a shortlist of artists, in consultation with Abigail O’Brien PRHA, President of the Royal Hibernian Academy Dublin, artist Mick O’Dea PRHA was chosen to produce this important piece, that is now on permanent loan to the Yacht Club Monaco and is on display in the office of the YCM President, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco.
“Through an association with Monaco, the Grace O’Malley will also travel to the Principality, in 2023, to bring on board Monaco’s youth.”
