National Gallery of Ireland and SMBC Aviation Capital announce extended partnership

Your Gallery at School aims to break down the barriers that prevent engagement with the arts through holistic programming that ensures children transition to adulthood equipped with the life-changing benefits of art. Further details of the programme, and how individual schools can participate, will be announced in the New Year.

Director of the National Gallery of Ireland, Sean Rainbird said: “We are delighted to announce the expansion of our longstanding relationship with SMBC Aviation Capital. The vastly changed world over the last few months has reminded us of the crucial role that art can play in learning and creativity.  The support from SMBC Aviation Capital will allow the Gallery to deliver its innovative “Your Gallery at School programme” ensuring that school children from across the country can continue to access the Gallery’s resources regardless of the other upheavals they are facing.”

Peter Barrett, Chief Executive of SMBC Aviation Capital said: “Making a positive contribution to the communities in which we operate is a guiding principle for SMBC Aviation Capital and as we mark our 20th anniversary in business in 2021, we are proud to extend our partnership with the National Gallery of Ireland. In these challenging times, it is crucial that communities from all backgrounds are able to benefit from learning through art and our support will enable the delivery of this school outreach programme in innovative ways.”

Founded in 1854, the National Gallery of Ireland is one of the country’s most popular visitor attractions. Corporate Partnerships with the Gallery offer the opportunity to work with Ireland’s premier cultural institution and its range of exhibitions and programmes.

SMBC Aviation Capital has supported the National Gallery of Ireland as a Corporate Partner since 2017.  The National Gallery of Ireland has similar collaborations with Ryanair, Zurich Insurance, Sarasin & Partner, ESB and more.

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For more information please contact:

Kate O’Leary, National Gallery of Ireland, Mobile: +353 87 334 1587

Orla Benson, SMBC Aviation Capital, Mobile: +353 86 047 4343

Conor Irwin, SMBC Aviation Capital, Mobile: +353 87 3816106                                                                                                                  

Note to Editors

About the National Gallery of Ireland

The National Gallery of Ireland houses the nation’s collection of European and Irish art from about 1300 to the present day, and an extensive Library & Archive. Entry to the collection is free for all to enjoy, learn and be inspired. For those who are unable to visit the National Gallery of Ireland at the moment, there are many ways to engage with the national collection online. Virtual tours of iconic spaces as well as exhibitions can be explored from home. Find out more at www.nationalgallery.ie

About SMBC Aviation Capital  

Based in the IFSC in Dublin Ireland, SMBC Aviation Capital is one of the world’s leading aircraft operating lease companies. In operation since 2001, SMBC Aviation Capital has an owned and managed fleet, comprising 720 owned, managed and committed aircraft.  Established in 2001, the company was acquired in 2012 by a consortium comprising of two of Japan’s biggest companies SMFG and Sumitomo Corporation. 

SMBC Aviation Capital has a dedicated Corporate Social and Responsibility programme.  For further information go to https://www.smbc.aero/