Kildare racecourse celebrates local creatives
Well known local artist Emma Campbell pictured with winning artist Isabelle Smith who took home the winning title of Artist of the Curragh Photos: Aishling Conway
The Curragh Racecourse celebrated the winners of two creative competitions 'Beyond the Finish Line' and 'The Artist of the Curragh' —at the Goffs Millions Race Day recently, recognising outstanding artistic talent that captured the spirit of Irish racing.
Newbridge local and final-year NCAD art student Isabelle Smith was crowned the winner of the Artist of the Curragh competition by judge acclaimed Kildare artist Emma Campbell. Isabelle’s impressionistic painting, created live on race day, captivated Emma with its vibrant atmosphere and dynamic flow.
“The reason I picked the winner was mainly because it was atmospheric, it was colourful and it was impressionistic,” said Emma. “The painting really embodied the atmosphere of a day at the races. I absolutely loved it. It had movement and flow and everything I look for in a finished piece. Congratulations to Isabelle who has a bright future as an artist ahead of her.”
Isabelle reflected on the experience: “To get to the final was more than I expected. The experience of being here meant so much and was so much fun. I enjoyed being able to interact with everyone and talk to people about my work. Winning was the icing on the cake.”
Isabelle will receive a €1500 commission from The Curragh, and her winning piece will be displayed at the racecourse throughout 2026.
Local photographer Paul Dempsey was awarded first prize in the 'Beyond the Finish Line' photography competition, in partnership with Bermingham Cameras. A long-time local photographer, Paul has spent over a decade capturing life at The Curragh.
“I was really honoured to receive first prize,” said Paul. “I have been snapping photographs for nearly 12 years on the Curragh constantly as I live nearby. This is the first prize I have ever won for my photography, so I was thrilled to bits.”
Paul received a Canon Pixma G4511 Printer valued at €300, with two runners-up each receiving a Canon Selphy QX10 Printer, all generously sponsored by Bermingham Cameras.
Ruth Norton, marketing manager for The Curragh Racecourse, said: “These competitions are a celebration of the artistry, emotion, and heritage that make The Curragh Racecourse a very special place. Whether through lens or brushstroke, we were delighted to see such powerful interpretations of racing culture.” For more information, visit www.curragh.ie or follow The Curragh Racecourse on social media.
