Éirí na Ríochta | Giclée Print

Limited Edition.

Éirí na Ríochta – The Rise of the Kingdom

Éirí na Ríochta is a tribute to the enduring spirit of Kerry football. The unbroken line of green and gold greatness is captured for eternity through three soaring icons of their respective eras: the 1980s, 2000s and 2020s. Set on a misted background of the instantly recognisable and uniquely scenic Kerry grounds of Fitzgerald’s Stadium, Killarney.

While three players had to be chosen, they rise on behalf of a tradition, a culture and a spirit that belongs to all of Kerry. That shared pulse that nourishes the life of The Kingdom:

On the left, Jack O’Shea. The powerhouse midfielder of the 1980s rises with the strength, athleticism and relentless drive that defined him as one of the most complete footballers the game has ever seen. With six All-Ireland medals and four Footballer of the Year awards, he defined the standard of excellence for his generation. More than his accolades, it was the spirit he carried onto the field - fierce yet inspiring - that made him a symbol of Kerry’s golden ‘80s era.

On the right, Colm “The Gooch” Cooper. Gooch set games ablaze with his silky skill, sizzling creativity and an unmatched scoring ability that captivated both fans and teammates alike. With multiple All-Ireland titles and three Footballer of the Year awards, Cooper’s influence stretched beyond the stats. His graceful style and calm confidence made him a true maestro, embodying the heart of a Kerry footballing era hungry for greatness.

And in the centre, David Clifford.

My primary vision for this painting was to sculpt it around three players. An intentional ode to the tri form of DaVinci’s Last Supper and a sacred gathering where each figure represents meaning beyond the moment.

There was never a question over who was to be placed in the centre.

Like Christ at the table, David Clifford performs a modern transubstantiation when the ball is in his grasp. It is no longer leather and air, but a gauntlet of greatness. And all turn to him in awe and reverence.

A schoolyard talent turned household name. 26, and already spoken of as the greatest of all time. The modern phenomenon leaps highest of the trio, equipped with “the body of a warrior and the legs of a ballerina”. 

David’s remarkable career is already well-decorated with two All-Ireland Senior Football titles, two Footballer of the Year awards and five All-Star honors. To watch him play is to witness man bend fate to his will. He shapes paths unseen, turns chances into certainties, all with a composure and lightness that, alone, sets him apart from all others.

My intention for this painting was to capture more than just a sporting moment. Eirí na Ríochta is the green and gold elixir that pulses alongside the red blood in Kerry hearts. It is the tradition, character and vitality that is passed from generation to generation in this county. And with each era, raises The Kingdom higher - like a castle rising on a hill, ever above the rest.

Now, Joe Brolly, what do you think of that?

 

Signed & numbered premium giclée print 

etching cotton rag 315gsm

Please allow at least 2 weeks for shipping for large prints.

Worldwide Shipping.

For my beloved county Kerry,

Love always, Sally.