Brian Whelan’s bold, large-scale paintings have an immense physical presence. They’re loaded with imagery and design, densely configured into a rich pattern of considerable complexity
Victoria Donohoe, art critic, Philadelphia Inquirer
As a son of immigrants, I am no stranger to a new culture. Spending time in the US with my American wife has given me another address but the drive of my work remains the same: a search for a spiritual and metaphorical home, which finds some consolation in the subjects I choose to paint. These themes are often narratives drawn from life’s comic tragedies, on both secular and religious planes.
National Portrait Gallery in London Acquires Brian Whelan Portrait
The National Portrait Gallery in London has acquired Brian’s portrait of the late Irish singer-songwriter Shane MacGowan for its permanent collection. Learn the story behind the painting, explore related works inspired by Shane, and discover the Outlaw Heaven collection.
Forthcoming Exhibitions
Caravan
The Galleries of The Interchurch Center
61 Claremont Avenue
New York, NY, 10115
New York: July 9th – August 26th
An artistic exploration featuring three premier contemporary artists from the faith traditions of Islam, Christianity and Judaism on the importance of caretaking the earth inspired by the story of Noah, the ancient flood narrative found in all three Abrahamic faiths
Read MoreA Visit with Brian
In this video, Brian reflects on how his years studying medieval art in East Anglia have shaped his bold, narrative style. Speaking from his Connecticut studio, he shares the inspiration behind his reimagining of the story of Noah’s Ark—not as a distant biblical tale, but as a powerful lens on today’s climate crisis. With vivid symbolism and contemporary twists, Brian transforms familiar images like the dove, the ark, and the rainbow into urgent messages for our time. See information on exhibition.
Holy City at the National Cathedral
In this video, Brian discusses his monumental painting Holy City at Washington National Cathedral. A project 15 years in the making, the work envisions a place where the three Abrahamic faiths coexist side by side, offering a hopeful and welcoming vision of religion in contrast to the often divisive headlines of our time.
Brian Whelan home and studio on Westport Road
Connecticut USA
…Brian is an artist of great skill, depth, and integrity, informed by both medieval and contemporary sensibilities.
Rev. Dr Peter Doll, Canon Librarian, Norwich Cathedral
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Contact Us
For enquiries about Brian’s art, please call Wendy at 1.540.303.0734 or fill out the form below.