Metal Sculpture

THE BRONZE COW WAS ENJOYING LIFE BACK IN 2016

June 4, 2024 by infomatique

BUT IT IS NOW LONELY AS IT WAS RELOCATED TO WOOD QUAY

The bronze cow sculpture, aptly titled “Ag Crú na Gréine” or “Enjoying the Sun,” was indeed a beloved feature of Wolfe Tone Park in Dublin. Crafted by Jackie McKenna, the life-sized cow was particularly popular with children who would often climb and play on it.

WISHING HAND BY LINDA BRUNKER -229603-1

March 13, 2024 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED USING AN iPHONE 12 PRO MAX UNTIL I WAS ASKED TO LEAVE

While photographing this sculpture I was asked to discontinue and leave immediately and as my policy is to cease when requested I did so.

Linda Brunker, an internationally renowned artist, has been a full-time sculptor since graduating from Art College in 1988 in her native Ireland. Her innovative style of bronze casting astonished not only the foundry where she worked but also the public, who rushed to buy her work. Over her 30-year career, Linda Brunker has created nearly 40 public art sculptures located around the world. Her sculptures defy the heaviness and static nature of metal, appearing light and fluid, creating fragile images that captivate viewers. Linda’s studio is currently based in Southern California, and she even opened her own gallery in Los Angeles to promote her sculpture and the art of other selected Irish artists.

ADULT AND CHILD SEAT BY JIM FLAVIN

March 6, 2024 by infomatique

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

BRIDGEFOOT STREET PARK FEATURING A METAL SCULPTURE

February 17, 2024 by infomatique

PHOTOGRAPHED 17 FEBRUARY 2024

In recent years when walking along Bridgefoot Street I have had a few unpleasant incidents involving youths on electric bikes and scooters so I no longer use my cameras when photographing in the immediate area and this is why I used an old iPhone that does not have a SIM.

However, despite my concerns, there is a very low incidence of vandalism in the park itself. This is due in part to an unseen network of park champions who effectively protect the park through local family and social networks. Dublin City Council have had little or no negative feedback regarding the aesthetic and character of the park with its ‘wilder’ appearance of naturally colonising vegetation.

A derelict site in Dublin’s Liberties has been transformed into a public park known as Bridgefoot Street Park. The park, which opened to the public in May 2022, was designed by Dermot Foley Landscape Architects in collaboration with Dublin City Council’s Parks, Biodiversity and Landscape Services.

Work commenced in 2020 but completion of the project was delayed by Covid-19 restrictions.

The new park, developed in conjunction with local residents, includes a performance area, play spaces, allotments and a community garden. There are 181 new trees and a mixture of herbaceous and ground-covered species have been planted, along with amenity grass and ornamental hedging.