About the Artists Database

The NIVAL Artists Database has been compiled in order to improve public access to the Library's extensive information files on 20th century and contemporary Irish artists.  These files contain exhibition catalogues, newspaper cuttings and ephemera on over 3,500 artists born or based in Ireland.

The Artists Database is a reference resource providing basic biographical and work details on each artist abstracted from the information contained in the hard copy files held in the Library.  It is important to realise that the records are a summary of the information held in each artist's file.  A visit to NIVAL is recommended to researchers seeking a comprehensive view of the actual files.

Although we have endeavoured to ensure the information is correct, it is inevitable, given the diverse sources of information, that some inaccuracies may occur.  Changes and updates are made on an ongoing basis and the Library welcomes suggestions, criticism, and donations of relevant material.

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  • Reference Code:IE/NIVAL AR/219
  • First Name: Sandra
  • Last Name: Bell
  • Gender: Female
  • Date of Birth: 1954
  • Place of Birth: Antrim
  • Nationality: Irish
  • Website: www.questdesign.co.uk/bell
  • Artwork Type Technique:
    • Bronze
    • Metalwork
    • Drawings
  • Abstract/Figurative: Abstract
  • Genre:
    • Bronze Sculpture
  • Represented By: Bell Gallery, Belfast.
  • Public Art: Yes
  • Size: 20+
  • Manuscript Material: No
  • Physical Location: Artist Files Collection
  • Public Collection:
    • Bank of Ireland.
    • Ulster Museum, Belfast.
    • AIB (Allied Irish Banks).
    • Numerous - see file

Notes

Bell creates figurative sculptural pieces using the lost wax method. Influenced by Celtic, African and Classical art, she abstracts any detail out of the figure until only the essence of a body remains. She has received numerous commissions from Dublin Corporation, Kildare County Council and Aer Rianta. Her work is in many public and private collections in Ireland, France Germany and America.