Born in Dublin in 1961 and raised in Donegal, Sharkey, a self-taught artist celebrated for his vibrant art, has lived in Dublin, London, and Ibiza. Sharkey started painting at twelve years of age. Hot Press hailed him as “Ireland’s first art superstar,” acknowledging his appeal to global collectors. Sharkey’s early creative outlet was Irish dancing, winning him over 30 medals. Over the past 14 years, his career has spanned various roles from a fisherman to a songwriter for notable acts like Boney M and Bob Geldof, and even as a nude model for David Bailey.
As Ireland’s pioneering non-White TV presenter on RTE’s MegaMix and a guest on “Father Ted,” Sharkey’s diverse talents have made him a significant figure in Irish media. His art and rise to fame were the focus of a 2005 RTE documentary, capturing attention at his homes in Ibiza and Dublin. The Sunday Times and Irish Arts Review have remarked on his art’s investment potential, noting a 700% increase in value over twelve years.
Sharkey’s “Dreamscapes” exhibition in 2005 featured alongside Irish art legends such as Tony O’Malley, Louis Le Brocquy, and Jack B. Yeats, establishing him further in the art world. Sharkey is also part of the Mel Sutcliff Collection, alongside Pablo Picasso, Lucian Freud and Francis Bacon. His two galleries feature exclusively his work, one in Dublin, Ireland and the other in Quinta do Lago, Spain.
His “Moolah” creation for charity showcases his innovative approach. The charity showcases never happened, and Moolah has since gone missing! Any information leading to the capture of Moolah will be rewarded with a €5000 voucher for the Sharkey Galleries.
Sharkey, Ireland’s most successful artist, is renowned for his bold contemporary paintings, with over 10,000 sold globally. His works are featured in major galleries in London, Dublin, and soon New York. Sharkey is part of the Mel T. Sutcliffe Collection, alongside Pablo Picasso, Lucian Freud, Jack B. Yeats and Francis Bacon.
Gift Certificates available in value of your choice from our gallery on Dawson Street in Dublin or by emailing sharkeygallerydublin@gmail.com
Learn more about Kevin Sharkey’s journey, philosophy, and artistic evolution in this recent interview with The Central Magazine. Read the full interview: https://www.thecentralmagazine.com/articles/irelands-most-successful-artist