Harry Kernoff: The Little Genius, by Kevin O'Connor

Harry Kernoff: The Little Genius is the first full-length biography of one of Ireland’s leading artists. Born in London, Harry Kernoff moved to Dublin in 1914 and from 1923 until his death in 1974 was a full-time artist when it was neither ‘profitable nor fashionable’. Against the odds Harry Kernoff has left a more encompassing visual record of the Irish experience during the twentieth century than any contemporary painter through his empathic interest in the ordinary people, and especially rank-and-file Dubliners. Through interviews with people who knew him – fellow artists, companions, collectors and relatives – plus an extensive trawl through archives and catalogues, Kevin O’Connor provides a revealing look at an extraordinary artist, emphasising Kernoff’s humanity, his art and his prolific output.

The value of Kernoff’s work has risen dramatically in recent years, as has his reputation as an artist. This lavishly illustrated book is a fitting tribute to an exceptional artist.

" . . . fans of Kernoff, both old and new, will be delighted to see his work gathered in one place and in such a beautifully produced volume." -- Katrina Goldstone, The Irish Times

 About the Author 

Kevin O’Connor is a former radio producer with RTE and BBC. He has made hundreds of radio features/documentaries and is the author of four other books, including The Irish in Britain, Ironing the Land: How the Railways Came to Ireland and Blake and Bourke.