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QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY
QUEEN'S CAMPUS
Many years ago I tutored a group of students from Asia. One of them had an offer from Queen's in Belfast and Trinity in Belfast. She indicated that she was going to accept the offer from Queens because a friend told her that it was a University but Trinity was not. This really did catch me by surprise. In case you are wondering, she decided to remain in Dublin and is actually employed by them promoting the institution in Asia and dealing with the affairs of the students that decide to come to Ireland.
The difference in terminology between Queen's University Belfast and Trinity College Dublin is rooted in historical and cultural factors, rather than any difference in their academic status. Both institutions are universities in the full sense of the word, offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, engaging in research, and having the power to award their own degrees.
Historical Context:
Queen's University Belfast: Founded in 1845 as Queen's College, it was initially part of the Queen's University of Ireland, along with colleges in Cork and Galway. When the Queen's University of Ireland dissolved in 1908, Queen's College Belfast became an independent university and adopted the name Queen's University Belfast.
Trinity College Dublin: Established in 1592 under a charter from Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College Dublin is the oldest university in Ireland. It was modelled after Oxford and Cambridge universities, where the term "college" is traditionally used to refer to the individual institutions that make up the university. Trinity College Dublin is unique in that it is both a college and a university, with no other constituent colleges.
Cultural Factors:
Tradition: The use of "college" to refer to Trinity College Dublin is deeply ingrained in Irish tradition and culture. It's a name that carries a sense of history, prestige, and identity. Changing it to "university" would likely be met with resistance from alumni, students, and the wider Irish public.
Identity: The term "college" is often associated with a more intimate and close-knit community, which may resonate with the ethos of Trinity College Dublin. The university prides itself on its strong sense of community and its commitment to providing a personalised educational experience for its students.
Conclusion:
While both Queen's University Belfast and Trinity College Dublin are universities, the difference in terminology reflects their distinct historical origins and cultural identities. The use of "college" for Trinity College Dublin is a cherished tradition that reflects the institution's unique place in Irish history and its commitment to fostering a close-knit academic community.
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STREET ART IN BELFAST 2017
STREET ART IN BELFAST
In 2017, Belfast's street art scene was a vibrant mix of political murals, emerging urban art, and growing commercial interest.
Key characteristics:
Legacy of political murals: Belfast's walls were historically dominated by murals depicting political and historical events, reflecting the city's complex past.
Rise of urban art: A new wave of street artists like Visual Waste brought a fresh aesthetic to the city, focusing on social commentary, pop culture, and artistic expression.
Increased visibility: Street art festivals, walking tours, and media attention brought more visibility to the scene, attracting both locals and tourists.
Commercialisation: Businesses and organisations started to recognise the potential of street art for branding and placemaking, commissioning murals and collaborating with artists.
Commercial trend:
The trend towards commercialisation has indeed continued and even accelerated since 2017. This is evident in:
Commissioned murals: Many businesses, both large and small, now commission street art for their premises, creating visually appealing environments and promoting local artists.
Sponsored festivals: Street art festivals have become more common, often sponsored by brands seeking to connect with a younger, urban audience.
Collaboration with tourism: Street art is now integrated into Belfast's tourism strategy, with guided tours and promotional materials showcasing the city's vibrant murals.
Artist representation: Some artists have gained professional representation, leading to more commercial opportunities and collaborations.
Impact:
While commercialisation has brought more opportunities and recognition for artists, it also raises questions about artistic integrity and authenticity. Some critics argue that it can lead to homogenization and a loss of the rebellious spirit that originally characterised street art.
Overall, Belfast's street art scene in 2024 is a dynamic and evolving landscape, balancing its rich political history with contemporary artistic expression and commercial interests. While commercialisation presents challenges, it has also provided a platform for artists to showcase their talent and contribute to the city's cultural identity.
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ALEC THE GOOSE
ALEC THE GOOSE
Outside the southern entrance of St. George's Market, along East Bridge Street in Belfast, you'll find a bronze sculpture of a goose and a young girl. This is Alec the Goose, a tribute to a beloved local bird who waddled his way into the hearts of Belfast residents in the 1920s.
Alec was no ordinary goose. He belonged to a poultry vendor in the bustling St. George's Market, a Victorian covered market that has been a central hub of Belfast life since 1896. Known for its fresh produce, local crafts, and lively atmosphere, the market was a natural gathering spot for both vendors and shoppers alike. Alec, it seems, took full advantage of this.
Legend has it that Alec wasn't content with simply staying in his pen. He would wander the market, accepting treats from vendors and becoming a familiar and friendly sight. He even developed a reputation for walking local children to school, a habit that sadly led to his untimely demise when he was hit by a truck.
In 2009, a sculpture of Alec and his young companion was unveiled, created by Scottish artist Gordon Muir. However, the reception was not entirely warm. The Markets' Development Association criticised the Department of Social Development for investing in the artwork rather than funding social and environmental projects.
Despite the initial controversy, Alec the Goose remains a quirky and endearing part of Belfast's landscape, a reminder of a time when a goose could become a local celebrity and a cherished member of the community. Whether you believe the tales of his school escorting or not, Alec's story adds a unique charm to the vibrant St. George's Market and the city of Belfast itself.
EXTENDED SCOPE TO INCLUDE PHOTOGRAPHS FROM EARLIER VISITS TO BELFAST
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