ABOUT THIS SCULPTURE

Author

SCULPTURE AT FARMLEIGH HOUSE

CONVERGENCE BY BRIAN KING [PHOTOGRAPHED AT FARMLEIGH HOUSE APRIL 2017]

When I visited Farmleigh House in April 2017 I came across a few things that I had been unaware of and this sculpture by Brian King was one such item.

The Artist: Brian King

Irish Sculptor: One of Ireland's most prominent sculptors of the 20th and early 21st centuries.
Style: Known for large-scale, abstract, and minimalist metal sculptures. He also worked in environmental and land art.
Training: Graduated from the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) in Dublin in 1963. Later became head of the NCAD sculpture department.
Recognition: Represented Ireland at the Paris Biennale twice (1969, 1983), winning a major award in 1969. His work is part of many collections in Ireland and beyond.

Other Works: Notable works include "Galway Yellow" (NUI Galway), "Double Helix" (Trinity College Dublin), and the Memorial to deceased members of the Irish Defence Forces (Merrion Square, Dublin).

The Sculpture: Convergence

Commission: Created to mark the 2004 enlargement of the European Union, when 10 new states joined.
Material and Form: Likely made of metal, consistent with King's preferred material. Due to the title and theme, it might be abstract and emphasise ideas of unity and coming together.

Symbolism: "Convergence" suggests the meeting of diverse elements as symbolised by the newly expanded European Union.

The Location: Farmleigh House

Official State Guesthouse: A beautiful and historic estate located in Phoenix Park, Dublin. It serves as a guesthouse for visiting dignitaries and hosts state events.

Prestigious Setting: Placing Convergence at Farmleigh highlights its significance as both an artistic piece and a symbol of European cooperation.
Public Access: While you might not have full access to Farmleigh grounds, there might be open days or opportunities to view the sculpture from a distance.