AMONG a number of Cullen exhibitions taking place in Dublin, this seems to be first in the field, and it is "gutsy" (to use a rather awful but useful adjective) in a way print exhibitions quite rarely are.
Cullen belongs to a generation of Irish artists who felt the impact of the New Expressionism strongly, and in his case it was reinforced by a stay in Berlin.true to this style and has not changed horses in mid-career.
In his paintings, I have often found the thick, almost gaudy impastoes and sticky surfaces a barrier to enjoyment. In these graphic works, however, the problem does not exist and so you have direct access to Cullen's fiery colour and dense imagery without having a solid wall of paint in your way.
He does not attempt to harmonise his colours, he rather lets them fight it out; and while this is a risky business, when it comes off the result is vibrant and alive.
Runs until July 12th.