Founded by a public-spirited group of citizens in the late 1930s, it has grown over the years into a substantial body of works. Most of the major Irish artists active during this period are represented by fine examples of their work. Appropriately, there is also a unique collection of works produced locally, depicting the ancient city of Waterford and its surroundings.

This fascinating book opens with a personal memoir by Roy Foster, and a comprehensive essay by Peter Jordan setting out the history of the collection within the cultural context of the period of its formation and development. Over 50 full-page colour plates, carefully chosen to indicate the rich mix of local, national and international works, illustrate the most interesting and significant works.

A full-colour catalogue section documents and illustrates the 330 works in the collection, together with brief biographical details of the artists.