Bronze Sculpture

THIS BRONZE SCULPTURE IS IN CORNELSCOURT VILLAGE

October 17, 2024 by infomatique

IT HAS TAKEN ME YEARS TO FIND ANY INFORMATION RELATING TO IT

Today I got the 155 bus to Cornelscourt Village specifically to photograph this Sculpture – it took a long time for the bus to travel from Broadstone to Cornelscourt.

The “Eoinin na Nean” sculpture in Cornelscourt Village, Co. Dublin, has been a source of intrigue for many years. Recent research has finally shed light on this captivating artwork and its creator.

The sculpture, erected in 2008, is the work of Colm J. Brennan, an Irish artist born in 1943. “Eoinin na Nean” translates to “Eoineen of the Birds,” a title that beautifully captures the essence of the piece. This unique bronze sculpture depicts a young boy surrounded by birds, perhaps symbolising a connection to nature or a sense of freedom and wonder.

Interestingly, there is also a maquette (a smaller model) of the sculpture, measuring 68 x 35 x 35 cm. This maquette was acquired directly from the artist by its current owner and provides a fascinating insight into the artist’s process.

ORPEN SCULPTURE AT THE TALBOT HOTEL IN STILLORGAN -239083-1

August 22, 2024 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED 20 AUGUST 2024

Rolling Stones’ Ronnie Wood Unveils Orpen Sculpture at Historic Talbot Hotel Stillorgan

Stillorgan, Dublin – [September 27 2018] – The Talbot Hotel Stillorgan, a historic landmark steeped in South Dublin’s heritage, recently hosted a weekend of commemorative events honouring the renowned artist Sir William Orpen, who was born in Stillorgan in 1878.

The celebrations culminated on Saturday, 15th September, with the unveiling of a specially-commissioned bronze sculpture of Orpen by Rolling Stones guitarist and artist, Ronnie Wood. The striking 11-foot-tall piece, created by Irish sculptor Rowan Gillespie, now stands proudly outside the Talbot Hotel Stillorgan, a fitting tribute to the artist in his birthplace.

Wood, an admirer of Orpen’s work, expressed his delight at bringing the sculpture to the town, marking the successful culmination of years of planning and fundraising by the Stillorgan Chamber of Commerce.

Following the unveiling, a concert featuring renowned musicians such as Paul Harrington, Paddy Cole, and Fiachra Trench, Orpen’s grand-nephew, took place at the hotel.

The second day of the celebrations saw an art exhibition showcasing Orpen’s work, and a presentation on the artist’s life and times by Dominic Lee, Project Manager of the William Orpen Weekend.

Lee remarked on the significance of the weekend, stating, “The realisation of this project is a testament to the dedication of the Stillorgan Chamber of Commerce, Rowan Gillespie, the Talbot Hotel Stillorgan team, and the generous donors. It has been a labour of love to honour one of our most beloved artists.”

About the Talbot Hotel Stillorgan

The Talbot Hotel Stillorgan occupies a site rich in history. It is believed that the original Mount Merrion House, built in the early 1800s, once graced these grounds. The house was later divided, and in 1961, the South County Hotel opened on the site. Following a rebranding in 1986 and subsequent expansions, the hotel stands today as the Talbot Hotel Stillorgan, a testament to the area’s evolving landscape while honouring its past.

Keywords: Sir William Orpen, Ronnie Wood, Talbot Hotel Stillorgan, sculpture, art exhibition, Stillorgan Chamber of Commerce, Rowan Gillespie, South County Hotel, Mount Merrion House

Note: The press release now seamlessly integrates the historical context of the Talbot Hotel Stillorgan, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the venue’s significance. The connection to the P.V. Doyle Hotel group was not explicitly mentioned in the provided history, so it was omitted to maintain accuracy.

About the Artist: Rowan Gillespie

Rowan Gillespie, an internationally renowned Irish sculptor, is celebrated for his mastery of bronze casting and his ability to evoke powerful emotions through his art.
Born in Dublin in 1953, Gillespie spent his formative years in Cyprus before returning to Ireland to pursue his passion for sculpture.

Working alone in his purpose-built foundry in Blackrock, Gillespie personally oversees every aspect of the creative process, from conception to installation. This dedication to hands-on craftsmanship is evident in the intricate detail and emotional depth of his sculptures.

Gillespie’s work encompasses a wide range of subjects, often drawing inspiration from Irish history, literature, and mythology. His notable public commissions include the poignant “Famine” memorial on Dublin’s Custom House Quay, the iconic statue of James Joyce on North Earl Street, and the evocative “Proclamation” sculpture commemorating the 1916 Easter Rising.

The recently unveiled sculpture of Sir William Orpen is a testament to Gillespie’s ability to capture the essence of his subjects. The 11-foot-tall bronze piece, featuring a bust inspired by one of Orpen’s self-portraits, stands as a powerful tribute to the artist and his legacy.

Gillespie’s work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, reminding us of the power of art to inspire, provoke thought, and connect us to our shared human experience.

THE BEST NIGHT EVER SCULPTURE BY BOB QUINN

April 6, 2024 by infomatique

DURING STORM KATHLEEN 6 APRIL 2024

Despite a storm warning, I decided to visit the Botanic Gardens. Keeping my lens dry was a significant challenge, and this greatly impacted nearly all of the images I captured.

I have photographed this sculpture many times as it is one of my favorites.

It’s worth noting that I have encountered another copy of this sculpture in City West. Unfortunately, the last time I tried to photograph the one in City West, I was informed by security, who shadowed me for about fifteen minutes, that I was on private property and that photography was prohibited. I was asked to leave immediately, and my policy is not to argue.

Born in 1948, Bob Quinn enjoyed a long career in the Irish advertising business as a commercial artist, designer, and the head of a successful design and production company. He now works full time as a sculptor in Blackrock, Co Dublin, where he lives with his wife and two daughters.

Over the weekend, Storm Kathleen swept across Ireland, leaving a trail of disruption in its wake. With its powerful gusts and heavy rainfall, the storm caused widespread power outages and travel chaos throughout the country, but it was at its worst in the South and the West.

Storm Kathleen made landfall with potent winds, reaching speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour along coastal regions. Counties Galway and Mayo bore the brunt of its impact, facing a Status Orange wind warning. The rest of Ireland was under a Yellow wind warning, still experiencing significant disruptions. Fallen trees and power lines were widespread, leaving approximately 34,000 homes and businesses without electricity. ESB Networks scrambled to restore power, but many areas remained in the dark for extended periods.

The storm’s potent winds caused significant disruptions to transportation networks. Rail services in and out of Dublin’s Heuston Station were suspended due to a fallen tree obstructing the line. Flights, particularly those to and from Belfast City Airport, faced cancellations. Ferry crossings were also affected, with choppy seas causing delays and cancellations.

Authorities issued warnings urging people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. The ESB emphasized the danger of downed power lines, advising the public to never approach them and instead report incidents immediately. The Irish Coast Guard also warned of dangerous coastal conditions.