PHOTOGRAPHED 19 DECEMBER 2024 BY WILLIAM MURPHY
Within the serene landscape of Bushy Park stands Bushy, a captivating sculpture by Irish artist Corban Walker. Initially, the lack of clear signage led to some speculation about its purpose – was it a modern communications mast, perhaps even a haven for bees? However, research has revealed its true identity as a striking work of art. [Note: the plaque which had been vandalised, painted over, has been restored]
This seven-metre-tall creation is a “slender aluminium sculpture” characterised by a “simple stacked cellular grid”. As described by Dublin City Council, Walker’s design is “an elegant, large-scale work based on many configurations of a cellular grid.” The interplay of projecting and recessed sections creates a dynamic visual experience, offering “a lively, joyful vision of simplicity that belies the complexity of its making.”
The sculpture’s minimalist aesthetic complements the park’s tranquil atmosphere, particularly the reflective environment surrounding the duck pond. Bushy serves as a distinctive landmark, enhancing the park’s visual landscape.
Bushy is one of six new sculptures commissioned as part of Dublin City Council’s Sculpture Dublin initiative. This initiative aims to enrich Dublin’s public spaces with contemporary art, making it accessible to all. Bushy was unveiled on 28 April 2022.
The other commissions in the Sculpture Dublin initiative are:
RGB Sconce, Hold Your Nose by Alan Phelan, a temporary commission for the O’Connell Plinth, unveiled on 29 September 2021.
Smithfield Utah by Alan Butler, a permanent commission for Smithfield Square Lower, unveiled on 18 October 2021.
THE BRIDGE: Fiacha Dhubha Fhionglaise ar Foluain (Finglas Ravens Soar) by Sara Cunningham-Bell, a permanent commission for Kildonan Park, unveiled on 8 November 2021.
Éirímís by Breda Marron, a permanent commission for Ballyfermot People’s Park, unveiled on 24 June 2022.
Elevation by Iván Argote, a land art commission for St. Anne’s Park, to be completed in 2023. Visualisations and plans are available on the St. Anne’s Park commission webpage.
About the Artist:
Corban Walker is a renowned Irish artist whose work often explores themes of scale, perception, and the built environment. Born with achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism, Walker’s personal experience of navigating a world designed for average height has deeply influenced his artistic practice. His sculptures and installations frequently engage with architectural spaces, prompting viewers to reconsider their relationship to their surroundings. He often uses industrial materials like aluminium and steel, creating minimalist yet impactful works.
About the Sculpture Dublin Initiative:
The Sculpture Dublin initiative is a Dublin City Council programme that aims to commission and install new public sculptures across the city. It seeks to promote contemporary art and enhance the urban environment for residents and visitors alike.