Kate recently marked the accomplishment at the opening of her newly relocated gallery in Gorey
Kate Kos has been living and painting for more than two decades in Gorey, Co. Wexford and recently relocated her studio in Gorey from St. Michael’s Road to McDermott Street. To mark the occasion, Kate invited locals to the new gallery for a special opening ceremony on recently.
The event acted as a special celebration to celebrate two accomplishments – the gallery’s new location and her selection for the RHA exhibition, which she said she has been applying to for many years.
“I’m delighted, I wasn’t even expecting it to get through. I didn’t actually check the results on the first day. I left it for the next day,” Kate said.
Kate Kos at the open night of her art studio in Gorey. PHOTO: Sabrina Ffrench
Kate’s painting, ‘Gunnera & Hemlock’ was selected among 450 artist who will feature a piece of art in the RHA exhibition which opens on Monday, May 25 and will be on display until Sunday, August 9.
A mixed media piece which incorporates, gouache, watercolour, pencils and pastels, Kate recalled the spectacular view at Anne Grove Gardens, near Castletownroche Co. Cork. “I worked in a plant nursery for eight years, so I love plants and nature. I was drawn into this view.”
She spoke about the selected piece, which she produced during her time at the Doneraile ArtFest in North Cork in 2025, where it received praise as it took home first prize and also the People’s Choice award at the Doneraile ArtFest.
“There was a lady there, she really loved the painting and wanted to buy it. Then she came back and said she changed her mind and I thought maybe it’s a sign,” Kate added.
Kate Kos Art Studio Open Night. Pictured is Lucy Power, Kate Kos and Ethy McDermott. PHOTO: Sabrina Ffrench
Kate recently closed up her gallery on St. Michael’s Road due to the landlord selling the property, which left her searching for a new space to call home. It wasn’t long before she found her new home on McDermott Street, where she is excited to make use of her larger space. “I have gained loads more space and its much bigger. The space has more studio space.”
Sharing the same space with her assistant, Kate said it was difficult to get into the zone to paint in the old gallery. “I got into the habit of staying long hours after my assistant was gone, so I could just paint. Now we have separate rooms, so it’s nice to have your own studio, close the door and just focus on your work,” Kate added.
During the official re-opening event, Kate thanked those for their support on the night and said she is quite happy to disappear behind the easel again to focus on her craft. “It’s just a much more comfortable, bigger space and a new location,” Kate said.
With the larger space, Kate said she hopes to see the return of her art teaching classes. “I have much more room now, so I’ll back with the classes, probably next September.”
