A SITE OF HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE
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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.