STEVE DOODY - HEXAGON - COULD BE IT BE STEEL
The inspiration behind Steve Doody’s sculpture “Hexagon - Could It Be Steel” isn’t explicitly documented, but we can explore some intriguing possibilities. Artists often draw inspiration from various sources, including personal experiences, cultural influences, and artistic experimentation. Perhaps Doody was captivated by the geometric form of a hexagon, which symbolises balance, harmony, and unity.
Alternatively, the title suggests a playful ambiguity—could it be steel, or is it something else entirely? The mystery invites viewers to engage with the work and interpret its meaning.
Ultimately, the artist’s intent remains open to interpretation, allowing each observer to find their own connection to the sculpture.
Years later, I encountered this sculpture in a memorial park, which I’ll discuss below:
On May 31, 2011, a memorial garden dedicated to those who lost their lives in the bombing of Dublin’s North Strand was re-opened to mark the 70th anniversary of the incident.
When I first photographed the memorial park, it appeared to have been badly neglected since its re-opening in 2011. However, since then, it has gradually improved. In late 2014 or early 2015, a random sculpture, left over from a “Sculpture In Context” exhibition at the Botanic Gardens, was added. Interestingly, since the addition of the metal sculpture, things have taken a downturn (though not necessarily due to the sculpture itself). If you’re curious, the sculpture is by Steve Doody and is named “Hexagon - Could It Be Steel.”
Now, let’s delve into the historical context. Around 2 am on May 31, 1941, four German bombs fell on north Dublin. One bomb demolished houses in the Ballybough area, injuring many but causing no loss of life.
Another bomb damaged Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the Irish President, near the Zoo in Phoenix Park.
A third created a large crater on the North Circular Road near Summerhill, again without causing injuries.
The fourth bomb struck North Strand, destroying 17 houses and severely damaging about 50 others. This devastating raid resulted in 28 fatalities, 90 injuries, and approximately 300 houses destroyed or damaged, leaving 400 people homeless.
The reason behind Hitler’s forces dropping these bombs remains unclear. Was it an attempt to force Ireland into war, or perhaps a reprisal for the assistance provided by the Dublin Fire Brigade during the Belfast Blitz?
Turning our attention back to Steve Doody, he is an artist known for his engaging and participatory works. One notable project is “Hiding a Forest in Plain Sight,” which he facilitated at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA).
In collaboration with the AONTAS Adult Learners and Circular Economy Festival in 2022, Doody organised a germination workshop for Horse Chestnut and Spanish Chestnut trees. Participants took home chestnuts in pots and adopted native Irish saplings for planting.
A total of 300 saplings were distributed to communities, emphasising the educational benefits of managing underused spaces for nature and community well-being. Doody’s role as an artist extends beyond creating art; he acts as a salesperson, educator, and provocateur, initiating responses and fostering collaboration. His work exemplifies the art of conversation and community building
Alternatively, the title suggests a playful ambiguity—could it be steel, or is it something else entirely? The mystery invites viewers to engage with the work and interpret its meaning.
Ultimately, the artist’s intent remains open to interpretation, allowing each observer to find their own connection to the sculpture.
Years later, I encountered this sculpture in a memorial park, which I’ll discuss below:
On May 31, 2011, a memorial garden dedicated to those who lost their lives in the bombing of Dublin’s North Strand was re-opened to mark the 70th anniversary of the incident.
When I first photographed the memorial park, it appeared to have been badly neglected since its re-opening in 2011. However, since then, it has gradually improved. In late 2014 or early 2015, a random sculpture, left over from a “Sculpture In Context” exhibition at the Botanic Gardens, was added. Interestingly, since the addition of the metal sculpture, things have taken a downturn (though not necessarily due to the sculpture itself). If you’re curious, the sculpture is by Steve Doody and is named “Hexagon - Could It Be Steel.”
Now, let’s delve into the historical context. Around 2 am on May 31, 1941, four German bombs fell on north Dublin. One bomb demolished houses in the Ballybough area, injuring many but causing no loss of life.
Another bomb damaged Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the Irish President, near the Zoo in Phoenix Park.
A third created a large crater on the North Circular Road near Summerhill, again without causing injuries.
The fourth bomb struck North Strand, destroying 17 houses and severely damaging about 50 others. This devastating raid resulted in 28 fatalities, 90 injuries, and approximately 300 houses destroyed or damaged, leaving 400 people homeless.
The reason behind Hitler’s forces dropping these bombs remains unclear. Was it an attempt to force Ireland into war, or perhaps a reprisal for the assistance provided by the Dublin Fire Brigade during the Belfast Blitz?
Turning our attention back to Steve Doody, he is an artist known for his engaging and participatory works. One notable project is “Hiding a Forest in Plain Sight,” which he facilitated at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA).
In collaboration with the AONTAS Adult Learners and Circular Economy Festival in 2022, Doody organised a germination workshop for Horse Chestnut and Spanish Chestnut trees. Participants took home chestnuts in pots and adopted native Irish saplings for planting.
A total of 300 saplings were distributed to communities, emphasising the educational benefits of managing underused spaces for nature and community well-being. Doody’s role as an artist extends beyond creating art; he acts as a salesperson, educator, and provocateur, initiating responses and fostering collaboration. His work exemplifies the art of conversation and community building
STEVE DOODY - HEXAGON - COULD BE IT BE STEEL