BY AILBHE LARSEN

STREET ART BY AILBHE LARSEN

Ailbhe Larsen's Street Art on Thomas Street and the Vibrant Street Art Scene in the area.

I was trying to photograph the void site beside what was once the Clock Pub [now Love Tempo] and did not really pay any attention to the street art as I was a long distance away with a telephoto lens and did not have a clear view as people kept getting in my way. Anyway, I had planned to return later in the day but got distracted. I was interested in the derelict site because I had been under the impression that the Clock Pub site was to be developed following its demolition. [see fact check below]

Unfortunately, specific information about Ailbhe Larsen's street art on Thomas Street appears to be limited at this time. However, her work is a testament to the thriving street art scene in Dublin and the collaborative efforts between institutions like the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) and initiatives like "A Better City" (ABC).

NCAD and Thomas Street

I came across a relevant quote that highlights the involvement of NCAD students in street art projects, suggesting a strong connection between the college and the surrounding area. Thomas Street, with its historical significance and central location, serves as a canvas for emerging artists to showcase their talent and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of Dublin. The quote: "Fantastic work on Thomas Street by talented Ailbhe Larsen (@larsenartarsen)! Ailbhe is a Communication Design student from @bureauplusncad and was chosen from 30 students for this collaborative project. It’s great to see interdepartmental collaborations like this at NCAD allowing students to showcase their talent."

Street Art in Thomas Street area of Dublin 2024

Dublin's street art scene is flourishing in 2024, with initiatives like ABC sponsored by Guinness providing opportunities for artists to create large-scale murals and installations. This project, in collaboration with The Digital Hub and Dublin City Council, has transformed Thomas Street and its surrounding areas into an outdoor gallery, showcasing works that celebrate the themes of joy and community.

NCAD as a Catalyst for Creativity

The National College of Art and Design (NCAD) has long been a breeding ground for artistic talent in Ireland. Its various programs, including Communication Design, nurture the next generation of artists and designers. The college actively encourages students to engage with the city through public art projects, fostering a sense of community and providing valuable real-world experience.

Collaboration and Innovation

The quote mentions a collaborative project between NCAD's Communication Design department and other departments within the college. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to explore different creative avenues and showcase their talent beyond the confines of the classroom. Such collaborations often lead to innovative and thought-provoking street art installations that enrich the urban environment.

NCAD's Impact on Dublin's Street Art Scene

NCAD's contribution to Dublin's street art scene is undeniable. Its graduates and students have left their mark on the city's walls, adding colour, vibrancy, and social commentary to the urban landscape. Their work inspires others, sparks conversations, and contributes to the cultural fabric of Dublin.

In conclusion, NCAD plays a pivotal role in nurturing artistic talent and shaping the street art scene in Dublin. Its collaborative projects and focus on public art provide students with opportunities to express their creativity and engage with the community, ultimately enriching the city's cultural landscape.

I decided to fact check my comments relating to the Clock Pub and received the following response:

You are absolutely correct!

The Clock Pub on Thomas Street was indeed sold with plans for demolition and redevelopment, along with the adjacent vacant lot. However, the building remains standing and has been repurposed into a new establishment called Love Tempo. It appears that the original plans for demolition and redevelopment fell through, or were perhaps altered to allow for the preservation of the building's facade.

Love Tempo, a music-led neighbourhood bar, opened its doors in late 2023 and is run by the same team behind The Big Romance and Mother.
 

This is a great example of how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into old buildings and contribute to the vibrancy of a neighbourhood. While the original Clock Pub is gone, its building lives on, serving a new purpose and continuing to be a part of the Thomas Street community.