The Mystery and the Mud, an exhibition of paintings by Brother Emmaus O’Herlihy OBS, curated by Maurice Quillinan has opened at Limerick Museum.
Emmaus O’Herlihy is a Benedictine monk and visual artist at Glenstal Abbey, Murroe, Co. Limerick. His paintings draw on Christian imagery while engaging contemporary aesthetic and theological questions. His work considers how recent artistic strategies reshape aesthetic priorities and awaken an ethical summons to the Other.
Emmaus uses art to challenge a dualistic mentality that would over-spiritualize the human person at the expense of our physical reality. This focus on the physical form aims to move beyond the fixed, harmonious bodies of Classical art toward a representation that is open to the messiness of lived experience.
Emmaus' work has been shown in Toronto, London (Ontario), Los Angeles, Munich, Dublin, and Limerick.
Museum Curator at Limerick Museum, Dr. Matthew Potter said:
“The work of Br. Emmaus serves as a contemporary witness to the enduring relevance of the monk-artist. His commissioned works, found in cities ranging from Munich and London to Los Angeles and Toronto, reflect an ecclesial identity that is in constant dialogue with postmodern sensibilities. His practice suggests that the monastic vocation provides a unique "cultural matrix" where the arts can mediate between tradition and the contemporary world, allowing the Gospel to be thought of in new contexts and with new possibilities of association.”
Emmaus holds a Bachelor of Design from the National College of Art and Design, Dublin, and completed both a Master of Theological Studies and a Doctorate in Theology at the University of St Michael’s College, University of Toronto, Canada. His research – awarded the Governor General’s Gold Medal for Academic Excellence – challenges static perceptions of the divine, a theme that permeates his own canvas. Central to Emmaus’ work is the principle of caro salutis est cardo, salvation hinges on the flesh.
The Mystery and the Mud will be on display in Limerick Museum until 30 April 2026. Limerick Museum is situated in the Old Franciscan Friary on Henry Street, next door to Dunnes Stores.
The Museum is open to the public Monday to Friday 10.00am to 5.00pm; Saturday 10.00am-1.00pm and 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Admission is FREE.
