Every time I visit a new city, the first thing I want to explore is its art scene. Simply walking around Dublin reveals a city bursting with creativity. Whether it’s murals, graffiti, signs, or local galleries, the art lover can immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture. As I wandered the streets, I discovered fascinating works that truly showcased the talent of local artists. My goal is to uncover the best "hidden" art spots for future tourists or students who love art as much as I do.
Graffiti
The term “Graffiti” derives from the Italian word “Graffio” which translates to “something scratched.” This popular art form was birthed by iconic artists throughout New York City such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring. As an illegal art form, artists secretly use spray paint to mark their territory to vandalize buildings throughout cities. Many artists either stay anonymous or use pseudonyms to keep their identities hidden.
Dublin, like many cities around the world, has embraced graffiti as part of its urban culture.
Walking through Dublin’s streets, you’ll see incredible designs on walls, street signs, and alleyways that bring a burst of color and creativity. From bold storefront murals to small, intricate designs along residential walls, these graffiti pieces transform Dublin into a living gallery.
An alley in the neighborhood of Portobello, Dublin holds an entire street dedicated to amazing yet anonymous street artist’s works. Each and every angle of Liberty Lane depicts a different perspective of the artistry that has come about on this lane. The alley is said to be constantly changing as new and old artists portray their work on its walls.
Murals:
Mural Art has been established in major cities and suburbs for centuries, dating back to prehistoric times. They were originally used as a way for people to communicate. Murals are famously associated with Italian artists like Leonardo Da Vinci, renowned for his stunning paintings adorning the ceilings of numerous buildings in Italy. In modern days, because most murals are a legal form of “graffiti” art, many artists are commissioned by businesses or cities to paint on various walls throughout neighborhoods for business matters or to express political statements. In Ireland, mural art is well established throughout many of its major cities. Specifically, in Dublin tourists and art enthusiasts can find extraordinary paintings along the walls of alleys, on the walls of various shops throughout the city, or on electrical posts in the streets.
One striking mural is "Oriel 467," a painting of a woman inspired by the photographer Olga Karlovac, located on Ormond Market Street. The same artist, Oriel467, also painted a shark mural on Ormond Quay Street and a mural of Thomas Dudley, a local icon from the 1950s and 60s, on Capel Street. These murals breathe life into the city’s landscape and offer art enthusiasts a rich visual experience.
Maser Art, a well-known Dublin artist, has created murals around the city, with one of the most famous being “U Are Alive” on Grantham Street. Maser’s work often carries open-ended messages, leaving interpretation up to the viewer. His mural on the side of the Dublin Simon Community Shop has resonated deeply with locals and visitors alike.
Another artist worth mentioning is Brutto, the alias of Brazilian-born Joao Adnet. His temporary murals, often seen on Grafton Street, carry political or social messages. The passion and precision of his work captivated me for over 25 minutes as I watched him create a stunning mural amid the bustling crowds.
Local Galleries:
Dublin is home to many galleries that showcase the work of both Irish-born and international artists. These galleries provide a window into the city’s rich artistic culture. Here are a few that stood out during my visits:
The Doorway Gallery: Located on South Frederick Street, this gallery features an array of artworks from various artists. It also has a space dedicated to showcasing solo exhibitions by up-and-coming artists, making it a great spot to discover fresh talent.
Sharkey Gallery: Kevin Sharkey, an Irish native, runs this gallery on Dawson Street. His unique approach to painting is captivating, and his works convey a deep psychological and emotional connection to humanity. Visiting Sharkey Gallery was a standout experience, offering something vibrant and organic.
Hugh Lane Gallery: One of Dublin’s more renowned galleries, Hugh Lane features permanent exhibitions, including Francis Bacon’s studio, the Harry Clarke Collection, and the Sean Scully Collection. I was fortunate to catch Sarah Purser’s exhibition, "More Power To You," which offered a glimpse into Ireland’s 19th-century art scene.
Dublin’s art scene has blossomed in recent years, largely due to the global rise of street art. As you walk through the city, you'll be amazed by the talent of local artists and the masterpieces they've created. Street art is on the rise in Dublin, influenced by trends from across Europe and America. Both local and international artists have shaped the city's art scene into something remarkable. I urge you all to visit Dublin and explore the different examples of art that the city has to offer. Whether you fancy graffiti, mural art, or quaint local galleries, the city offers every possibility for the art lover.
Make sure to take the time to visit Dublin and experience this thriving art culture for yourself!
Comments