First exhibition of Richard Harris Archive opens in Limerick

4 Jul 2025

• The immersive exhibition draws on the treasures of the Richard Harris Archive, donated by the actor’s family to University College Cork.
• The exhibition offers a glimpse into the life of an artist who captivated audiences across generations.

A new exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Richard Harris is now open at the Hunt Museum in Limerick. From ‘Dickie to Richard’ – Richard Harris: Role of a Lifetime offers a unique look at one of Ireland’s most iconic actors, drawing on never-before-seen materials from his personal archive.

The exhibition is the first public display of items from Harris’s personal collection, including annotated film and theatre scripts, letters, photographs, poetry, music recordings, and memorabilia. Together, these pieces tell the story of an artist who defied convention across theatre, writing, and music, and whose influence continues to resonate.

The exhibition is a collaboration between the Harris family, the Hunt Museum and University College Cork (UCC), drawing on the Richard Harris Archive which was donated by the actor’s family to UCC in 2022.

Damien, Jared and Jamie Harris, on behalf of the family, said: 'Richard was a prolific writer and kept everything: Poems. Short stories. Scripts. Whether finished or works in progress. This exhibition gives people a sense of the depth and humour behind the public image. It means a lot to us to see it begin here, in Limerick."

UCC President Professor John O’Halloran said: "The exhibition comprises carefully selected artefacts from the larger archive now housed, protected, preserved, and researched at University College Cork for generations to come. We were keen that the first public exhibition of the Richard Harris Archives occurred in Limerick and this collaboration with the Hunt Museum has produced a stunning tribute to one of the most iconic film actors of the late twentieth century."

Dr Barry Monahan, UCC Department of Film and Screen Media, said: “We are delighted that this exhibition is opening its doors in Limerick’s Hunt Museum. It offers the public – fans of Richard, of the arts, and of Irish culture – a wonderful glimpse into the mind and creative energy of this impressive and enigmatic Irishman, and it sheds light on the times and places in which he lived and worked.”

“The exhibition comprises carefully selected artefacts from the larger archive, on which our UCC’s Special Collections and Archives team has been working. We are honoured that this magnificent donation is now housed, protected, preserved, and researched at University College Cork for generations to come. It’s an incredible resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in film, theatre, and the life of one of Ireland’s most extraordinary artists.”

Teresa Crowley, CEO, Hunt Museum, said: “This exhibition is a homecoming for Richard. It not only honours his extraordinary career but celebrates his Limerick, Munster, and Irish roots, offering the public a unique opportunity to explore his artistic and sporting world in the city where his journey began.”

The exhibition is open until 16 November 2025.

Tickets are now available.