Born in Dublin in 1961 and raised in Donegal, Sharkey, a self-taught artist celebrated for his vibrant art, has lived in Dublin, London, Ireland, and Spain. 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 400% increase in value over three 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 three galleries feature exclusively his work, two in Dublin, Ireland and the other in Malaga, 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 Sutcliff Collection, alongside Pablo Picasso, Lucian Freud and Francis Bacon.
Gift Certificates available in value of your choice from our gallery in Royal Hibernian Way in Dublin or by emailing sharkeygallerydublin@gmail.com
