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"Ireland Map with County Meath Magnified", by Bastique , licensed under CC by 3.0.

Simon Coleman was an Irish portrait painter who was born on June 22nd 1916 in Duleek Co. Meath and died in 1995.

Career / Role in Art
Simon Coleman played a versatile role in the Irish art scene, leaving an enduring impact through his paintings, teaching, and engagement with Irish folklore. Beginning his career as one of the artists assisting Seán Keating with a mural for the 1939 World's Fair in New York, Coleman's journey unfolded into a diverse and creative artistic exploration.

In the early years of his career, Coleman exhibited a commitment to capturing the significance of Irish life and heritage. His works, showcased at the Royal Hibernian Academy from 1940 onwards, often delved into the thematic parts of Irish culture, traditions, and landscapes. Notably, he received attention for his portraits, with the portrayal of Sir James Nelson in 1943 earning acclaim for its well-conceived and finely painted representation.

An important milestone in Coleman's career was his commission to paint President Douglas Hyde's retirement gift to the nation, "The Council of State" in 1945. This monumental work, covering fifteen individuals, required personal sketches of each member, showcasing Coleman's dedication to his art. His association with the RHA, from becoming an associate in 1944 to a full member in 1949, marked his recognition within the artistic community.

Beyond his contributions to the visual arts, Coleman took on roles as an art teacher at St Laurence's School, Drogheda, and engaged with the Irish Folklore Commission. During fieldwork with the Commission in 1949 and 1959, he sketched and documented rural life, creating a rich visual record of Irish folklore.

Coleman's dedication to the Irish language and culture was evident in his later works, all bearing Irish titles. His advocacy for Irish artists and criticism of the neglect they faced emphasise his commitment to the local artistic community. Coleman's work, spanning portraiture, landscapes, and drawings of everyday life, reflects a sharp photographic vision and an consistent dedication to accuracy in drawing. His legacy endures through retrospectives, exhibitions, and the visual narratives he crafted throughout his creative career.