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THE THOMAS DAVIS STATUE AND MEMORIAL FOUNTAIN

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AND WHEN I GOT THERE THE WATER FEATURE WAS DRY

The Thomas Davis Statue & Memorial Fountain in Dublin celebrates the life of a prominent 19th-century Irish nationalist, writer, and poet. Located on Dame Street, it’s a significant landmark in the city.

Why is the Fountain Dry?

Unfortunately, the fountain has frequently been dry over the years. There are a few reasons for this:

Maintenance Costs and Challenges: Maintaining fountains requires constant attention. Pumps, filters, and piping need regular upkeep, which can be expensive. Older fountains might be more prone to leaks and technical failures, adding further strain to maintenance budgets. Dublin City Council may prioritise repairs on essential infrastructure, leaving fountains lower on the list.

Water Conservation: Ireland, like many places, faces increasing concerns about water resources. During dry spells or droughts, water restrictions might be in place. Operating decorative water features could be seen as conflicting with these conservation measures.

Vandalism: Unfortunately, public fountains sometimes become targets of vandalism. Damage can range from relatively minor litter to more serious issues impacting the fountain’s mechanics. Repairs can be costly and repeated incidents might lead to long periods where the fountain remains dry.

Aesthetics: In some cases, a dry fountain might be a design choice. The monument itself or its sculptural elements may still be appreciated even without the water feature functioning.

Public Health Concerns: Stagnant water in fountains can sometimes pose health risks. Bacteria and algae buildup become a concern, especially if they attract birds or other animals. Rigorous cleaning and treatment protocols are needed, adding to the maintenance burden.

Changing Priorities: Historically, many fountains served the practical purpose of providing drinking water. With wider access to clean tap water, this function became less relevant. The perceived value of fountains might have shifted, impacting funding for them.

Maintenance Issues: Like many public water features, the fountain can suffer from leaks, pump problems, or other mechanical issues that require it to be shut down.
Water Conservation: Dublin occasionally faces water restrictions, especially during periods of drought. The fountain may be turned off to comply with these restrictions.
Vandalism: Sadly, public features can sometimes be targets of vandalism, which could also lead to the fountain being non-operational.

The Artist

The same artist, Edward Delaney (1930-2009), created both the statue and the fountain. Delaney was a renowned Irish sculptor known for his expressive and powerful style. His other significant works in Dublin include the Wolfe Tone Monument on St. Stephen’s Green.

The Pipers

The four bronze figures surrounding the fountain that blow water through trumpets represent the four provinces of Ireland: Connacht, Leinster, Munster, and Ulster. This symbolism references Thomas Davis’s poem “A Nation Once Again,” which emphasises Irish unity.

More about Edward Delaney

Born in Dublin, he initially pursued a career in insurance but later trained in sculpture at the National College of Art and Design.
His work often focuses on historical and political themes, with many of his sculptures reflecting his interest in Irish nationalism.
Delaney’s style is frequently described as expressionist, with figures showing bold, stylised forms and a sense of movement and intensity.
Additional Notes

The panels around the fountain basin contain scenes depicting the Irish Famine along with scenes inspired by Davis’ poetry.
The monument was unveiled in 1966, attended by then-President of Ireland, Eamon De Valera.

It’s important to remember that putting soap in fountains is a form of vandalism. It might seem harmless, but it leads to costly cleanups and disrupts the enjoyment of these public features.

soap powder in fountains can cause damage in a few ways:

Mechanical Strain on Pumps: Suds create additional resistance for the fountain’s pumps and motors. They have to work harder to circulate the water, which can lead to overheating and potential burnout.

Clogging Filters and Pipes: Soapsuds, particularly if a lot of soap is used, can clog the filtration system designed to keep the fountain water clean. This can create blockages, further straining the pumps and potentially leaving the fountain water dirtier than usual.

Corrosion: Depending on the soap’s ingredients and the materials used in the fountain, extended exposure to suds can contribute to corrosion. Soap residue can alter the water’s pH levels or contain abrasives that scratch and weaken surfaces over time.

Environmental Issues: While some soaps might be biodegradable, dumping large quantities into a fountain disrupts the water’s natural ecosystem. It can create an environment where algae and bacteria thrive more easily.

The Severity of the Damage

Amount of Soap: A small amount of playfully sudsy bubbles from some dish soap is unlikely to cause lasting harm. However, pranksters dumping large quantities of detergent or industrial-grade soap can create significant problems.

Type of Fountain: Fountains with a small water reservoir and limited filtration may be more susceptible to damage. Conversely, very large, robust fountains might withstand a soap attack more effectively, although cleanup will still be a hassle.

ADULT AND CHILD SEAT BY JIM FLAVIN

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I WAS SURPRISED TO DISCOVER THAT THIS WAS A BRONZE SCULPTURE

St. Catherine’s Graveyard Park, located off Thomas Street in Dublin, is a place steeped in history. Once a graveyard, it has undergone significant conservation efforts over the past three years. The park now features a beautiful sculpture called “Adult & Child Seat” by artist Jim Flavin (1961–2004).

Let’s delve into the details of this intriguing artwork:

Artwork Description: The Adult & Child Seat takes inspiration from the headstones that once adorned the park. Crafted in bronze, this curvilinear seat symbolises the continuity of life. Flavin’s signature abstract flowing forms are evident in this piece.

Flavin’s Style: As an abstract artist, Flavin was captivated by the fluidity of bronze. He explored the material’s potential, creating soft, flowing shapes. His focus on different sections within each artwork allowed him to achieve the desired form and texture. The choice of bronze as his expressive medium was pivotal.

Significance of the Site: Interestingly, Flavin deliberately selected St. Catherine’s as the location for his sculpture, even though it wasn’t among the pre-designated sites. This decision adds to the piece’s uniqueness and connection to the park’s history.

About Jim Flavin: Born in Limerick in 1961, Flavin studied at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin and the Crawford College of Art in Cork. His artistic journey led him to the Lasallian International Art and Culture Centre near Florence, where he discovered his passion for bronze casting. Upon returning to Ireland, he founded the Bronze Art Ltd. foundry in Dublin. Flavin also served on the executive board of the Sculptors Society of Ireland from 1992 to 1993.

The Adult & Child Seat stands as a testament to Flavin’s artistic vision and the rich history of St. Catherine’s Graveyard Park

THE WOOD QUAY SCULPTURE BY MICHAEL WARREN

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A SITE OF HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE

ANCHORED VOID KILKENNY CASTLE BY MICHAEL WARREN

The Wood Quay Sculpture

Outside Dublin’s Civic Offices on Wood Quay stands a large, imposing wooden sculpture, often referred to as the “Wood Quay” sculpture. The sculpture’s abstract form evokes the prow of a Viking longship, a powerful and deliberate choice for this historically significant location.

The Artist: Michael Warren

The Wood Quay sculpture was created by renowned Irish sculptor Michael Warren, born in 1950 in Gorey, County Wexford. Warren is known for his large-scale, site-specific public artworks that often incorporate natural materials. His work frequently investigates themes of history, the environment, and a sense of place.

Why Wood Quay?

The placement of the “Wood Quay” sculpture is deeply symbolic. Wood Quay marks a site of profound historical importance, where the remains of a significant Viking settlement were discovered. The sculpture serves as a potent reminder of Dublin’s rich Viking heritage. Its ship-like form suggests the arrival of the Norse people and the profound impact they had on shaping the city.

Moreover, the use of wood as a material might allude to the original quay’s construction, which would have likely used timber. The organic nature of wood, though a durable material, can also speak to the passage of time and the layers of history that exist beneath the modern city.

The Artwork’s Impact

The “Wood Quay” sculpture has become a landmark in Dublin and a starting point for many visitors interested in Dublin’s Viking past. The bold and abstract nature of the artwork invites contemplation and provides a visual focal point in an otherwise predominantly urban environment.

DEMOLITION DAVE’S MEMORIAL AT THE SMITHFIELD TRAM STOP

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A FREQUENTLY UNNOTICED TRIBUTE

Amidst the bustling crowds at Smithfield Luas stop, an unassuming memorial stands as a silent homage to a remarkable man whose legacy often escapes the hurried gaze of passersby.

Dave Conway, a father of two, met an untimely end at the tender age of 38, victim to a tragic motorbike accident. His indelible mark, however, remains etched in Dublin’s urban fabric.

As a Demolition Manager, Dave played a pivotal role in shaping the LUAS construction project — an endeavour that now crisscrosses our city. His dedication and expertise left an indelible imprint on the very tracks we traverse daily.

For nearly a year, I delved into the mystery surrounding the sculpture adjacent to the tram stop. It remained an enigma until a serendipitous moment revealed its creator: James Gannon. This gifted artist, working with stone and bronze from his Dublin and Roscommon studios, breathed life into the unassuming structure.
The Bench That Speaks: Some dismiss it as such. But look closer. Trace the tramlines etched into its form—the subtle nod to the very tracks Dave once navigated. Curious, I engaged fellow Dubliners in conversation. Not one had noticed its deeper significance until I pointed out those embedded rails.

Gannon’s career highlights include:

Gold Medal, Irish Landscape Exhibit (EXPO ’91 Osaka, Japan): This prestigious award in 1991 was in recognition of his outstanding granite sculptures.

Public Commissions: He’s created numerous public sculptures, such as those decorating the façade of Dublin’s historic Fruit and Fish Market Buildings, and a large granite piece dedicated to the Travelling Community at Parslickstown.

Representation of Ireland: In 2001, Gannon represented Ireland at the Symposium du Granit des Marches de Bretagne in France.

His work often explores themes of heritage, growth, and the interplay between natural and human-made forms. One notable piece, “Hybrid Vigour”, was inspired by his grandfather and the agricultural concept of cross-breeding to achieve greater strength.

EMBRACED LOOP BY ANAISA FRANCO

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THE CONCRETE SHELTER AND THE CORTEN STEEL SCULPTURE

I included the concrete shelter in some of the photographs even thought they have no obvious connection other than their location.

The Embraced Loop, by Anaisa Franco, is a poignant and significant sculpture located in the People’s Gardens within Phoenix Park in Dublin, Ireland.

Here are the key details about this remarkable monument:

Purpose and Symbolism: The Embraced Loop serves as an HIV and AIDS NATIONAL MONUMENT. Its design expresses solidarity with everyone, both past and present, who has been affected by HIV and AIDS.

The sculpture aims to:

  • Show solidarity with those currently living with and affected by HIV.
  • Remember those who have lost their lives to this devastating disease.
  • Celebrate the lives of those who fought bravely and supported others.
  • Mark their contribution to society.

Design and Aesthetics:

  • The sculpture takes the form of an abstract loop.
  • It creatively incorporates the Red Ribbon, which is universally associated with HIV/AIDS awareness.
  • The loop symbolises interactive approach and the interconnectedness of all those impacted by the epidemic.

Unveiling and Significance:

The Embraced Loop was officially unveiled in the Phoenix Park. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar expressed its importance, stating that it would permanently reside in the People’s Gardens.

The monument serves as a powerful reminder that the struggle against HIV/AIDS is ongoing, and we must continue to act and support those affected.

Anaisa Franco is an award-winning artist who pioneers participatory public art with a mission to activate the body and public spaces through an interactive approach. Her studio specialises in parametric digital fabrication and technology integration, creating experiential, self-sustainable organisms. Graduating with a Masters in Digital Art from the University of Plymouth in England, UK, in 2007, Franco has developed digital work at Medialab Prado (2008) and currently works as a New Media artist at Applied Future Studio in Berlin. Her work combines creativity, technology, and community engagement to create meaningful and impactful installations.

TODAY IS USED THE SONY 85MM LENS

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM lens is an absolute gem for portrait photography.
Let’s dive into the details:

Image Quality: The lens ticks all the right boxes for portraiture on a full-frame camera. With its 85mm focal length and fast f/1.4 aperture, it excels at isolating the main subject against a beautifully blurred background. The image quality is stunning, and the bokeh is wonderfully soft and dreamy, even when stopping down a little. The lens features a very well-rounded 11-blade diaphragm that contributes to the pleasing bokeh.

Build and Handling: The build quality is rock-solid, and the lens is weather-sealed. It’s part of Sony’s flagship G Master (GM) lineup, which means top-quality construction. Notably, it includes a customisable focus-hold button and an aperture control ring with a ‘de-click’ option for smooth transitions during video shooting.

Optical Design: The optical path incorporates a high-precision XA (eXtreme Aspherical) element for enhanced bokeh quality. Additionally, there are three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements to boost sharpness, contrast, and reduce colour fringing.

Performance: Autofocus, based on a Linear SSM (Super Sonic wave Motor), is fast and near-silent. Sharpness is excellent wide open at f/1.4 and becomes stunning when stopped down slightly. The lens also features Sony’s nano-structure AR coating to minimize ghosting and flare.

Price: It’s undeniably a pricey lens, but its performance more than justifies the cost.
In summary, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM is ideal for top-quality portraiture and still-life photography. Whether capturing people or objects, this lens delivers outstanding results.

The Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM lens has garnered acclaim for its optical excellence, but it’s not without a peculiar issue related to autofocus noise.

Let’s delve into the details:
Focus Noise: Some owners [including myself] have reported an unusual noise when the lens focuses. Descriptions range from a coffee grinder-like sound to a scraping noise. This issue was particularly prominent in the lens’s early days, around 2016-2017. You can find discussions about it on forums like SonyAlphaForum, Fredmiranda, and Dpreview.

Scratches Inside the Lens: In a few cases, this autofocus noise seems to have caused scratches inside the lens. While not widespread, it’s essential to be aware of this potential concern. I did not notice this issue.

Comparisons and Observations:
Roger Cicala from LensRentals conducted some preliminary investigations:
Noise: All the lenses exhibit some noise during focusing, with varying levels of loudness. Most likely, this noise comes from the motor (possibly Piezo motor noise).
Inner Barrel Markings: Over half of the lenses have markings on the inner barrel when the focusing element is retracted toward the mount. These markings could be lube or scrapings in the plastic.
Dust: Like many wide-aperture 85mm lenses, the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM has some dust particles inside, which is typical and not unique to this lens.
Lube Streaks: No lube streaks on inner elements were observed.
Metal Shavings: The inner barrel doesn’t appear to be metal, and no dust particles resemble reflective metal shavings.
Noise Consistency: After focusing back and forth 500 times, there was no noticeable change in noise.

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