About
Step into the captivating world of vintage photography with The Bell Archive Exhibition, the final instalment in a trilogy of exhibitions celebrating Northern Ireland’s photographic heritage. Co-curated by Frankie Quinn and the Belfast Archive Project, this exhibition showcases rare and evocative images taken by the Bell brothers during their travels across the west of Ireland from the 1930s to the 1950s.
Discover a time when donkeys were the main mode of transport, turf was the fuel of choice, and Gaeilge was the language of the land. These photographs—many believed to be taken by James Kennedy Bell in 1950—offer a rich, nostalgic glimpse into rural Irish life, with scenes captured during family expeditions by caravan.
The Belfast Archive Project aims to preserve, interpret and present Belfast's vanishing photographic heritage. It has been entrusted with collections of negatives and photographic prints in order to protect them for future generations, and make them accessible through exhibitions, digital resources and print publications.
These archives include the work of some of Northern Ireland's most respected photographers - like James Bell, Frankie Quinn (previously on display in Summer 2025), and Bill Kirk (previously on display in Spring 2025).
These extraordinary images are a fraction of the archive of photographs taken by four brothers - Nelson Victor (b. 1897), James Kennedy (b. 1900), Herbert (b.1904), and Jonathan Benjamin Bell (b. 1907). These brothers shared many interests, such as photography, science, art, antiques, ornithology and boats.
Whether you're a photography enthusiast, history lover, or simply curious about Ireland’s past, this exhibition offers a unique and immersive experience.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Adult | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
