Kildare artists selling art for charity
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Among the Kildare artists taking part in incognito 2026 are Shirley Hackett from Leixlip, Martin Gale from Ballymore Eustace, and Claire Murphy from Kilcock
It’s been revealed that 23 Kildare artists have gone into hiding for this year’s incognito online art sale in aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation.
The annual fundraising event, in which participating artists remain completely anonymous until after their work is purchased, will take place on Wednesday, 20 May.
Once a sale is completed, the identity of the artist behind each piece is revealed, adding to the excitement for collectors and supporters alike.
Among the Kildare artists taking part in incognito 2026 are Shirley Hackett from Leixlip, Martin Gale from Ballymore Eustace, and Claire Murphy from Kilcock. They are part of a wider national group contributing to what has become one of Ireland’s most unusual and successful charity art initiatives.
To mark the 10th anniversary of the event, organisers have announced a newly enlarged 6 x 8-inch postcard format for this year’s collection. Nearly 2,000 original artworks will be available to view and purchase at www.incognito.ie, each priced at €75.
The funds raised provide vital support for the 39 Kildare families currently receiving services from the charity. Over the past decade, incognito has generated €1.4 million, helping to fund in-home nursing and respite care for families across Ireland.
The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation provides up to 100 hours of home care per month to families caring for children up to seven years old with severe learning disabilities often linked with complex medical needs. The service operates seven days a week and is provided with no means test, no waiting list, and no red tape.
Curator Lucinda Hall said the idea originated from a conversation about a mystery art sale concept she encountered in London, later developed in collaboration with Jack and Jill founder Jonathan Irwin. She said the initiative has uncovered significant artistic talent while giving buyers a unique collecting experience.
Jack and Jill CEO Deirdre Walsh said the event has had a “real-world impact”, expanding services and providing additional supports such as counselling. She added that the time gifted to families through the charity remains its most meaningful outcome.
“Ultimately, what both artist and art buyer delight in is what their support means for parents – time for much-needed sleep, or time for coffee with a friend, or perhaps time to take a sibling to see a movie or go to a match.”