HEADLESS URBAN EXPRESSION

There Is Much To See Here

Murals

MURALS IN THE PARK BY KIRSTY MAHER

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CARLOW TOWN PARK AND PLAYGROUND

Carlow Town Park Takes Flight: Kirstie Maher’s Bird Murals Bring Nature’s Beauty to Life

Carlow Town Park is now home to a vibrant series of bird murals, thanks to the vision of Ciaran Brennan who commissioned local artist Kirstie Maher to bring nature’s beauty to the park.

Maher, a Carlow native known for her captivating public art, has a knack for creating murals that resonate with the community. Her recent piece, “Progression Towards Unity,” at The Exchange in Carlow Town, beautifully portrays themes of community and unity through the symbolism of fireflies.

This new series in Carlow Town Park is another testament to Maher’s talent and her commitment to enriching her hometown’s cultural landscape. Through her vivid depictions of birds, she hopes to inspire, spark conversations, and bring a touch of joy to park visitors.

STREET ART ON CENTAUR STREET IN CARLOW

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AN UNUSUAL NAME FOR A STREET IN IRELAND

Centaur Street in Carlow: A Curious Name with a Storied Past, Divided by Haymarket

Centaur Street, nestled in the heart of Carlow town, is a thoroughfare that piques curiosity with its unusual name and distinctive layout. The street is divided into two sections by the triangular Haymarket, a central open space that adds a unique character to the area.

While the exact origin of the street’s name remains shrouded in some mystery, local lore and historical records offer tantalising clues. One prevailing theory links the street’s name to the Browne family, prominent landowners in Carlow during the 18th century. Their coat of arms featured a centaur, a mythical creature combining the upper body of a human with the lower body of a horse. It is believed that the street, once part of the Browne estate, was named in honour of this heraldic symbol.

Another intriguing possibility stems from the ancient Greek myth of the centaurs, who were renowned for their wild and untamed nature. Some speculate that the street’s name might allude to the area’s lively atmosphere or perhaps to its location near the River Barrow, which could have been perceived as a somewhat untamed natural force in earlier times.

Regardless of its precise origin, the name Centaur Street has endured for centuries, adding a touch of mystique to this historic Carlow thoroughfare. Today, it is home to a mix of businesses and residences, each contributing to the town’s vibrant tapestry. Haymarket, with its central location, serves as a gathering place and a visual marker dividing the street into two distinct sections.

As you stroll along Centaur Street, take a moment to ponder its enigmatic name and the stories it might hold. Whether it echoes the legacy of a noble family or whispers of ancient myths, it serves as a reminder of Carlow’s rich history and the enduring power of names to capture our imagination.

SWEET AS SUGAR STRONG AS STONE

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OLD STONES MURAL IN CARLOW – SEANCLOCHA CHEATHARLACH

On College Street, across from the Cathedral, there is a building Seanclocha Cheatharlach, on which is a mural named the Old Stones Mural. To the best of my knowledge this featured in the 2021 Carlow Fringe Arts Festival.

“Seanclocha Cheatharlach” is the Irish phrase for “The Old Stones of Carlow.” It refers to the collection of ancient megalithic monuments and other historic stone structures found throughout County Carlow.

One prominent example related to this phrase is the Sean Clocha Cheatharlach/The Old Stones of Carlow Mural located in Carlow town. This mural celebrates the rich prehistoric heritage of the region by depicting some of its most iconic ancient sites, such as the Brownshill Dolmen and other megalithic tombs.

So, while “Seanclocha Cheatharlach” literally translates to “The Old Stones of Carlow,” it encompasses both the actual ancient monuments themselves and the cultural appreciation and recognition of these significant historical landmarks, as exemplified by the mural.

THE OLD STONES OF CARLOW

Remember when the air was sweet
From the Tavern to the Weir
With the smell of sugar beet
Each September of the year.

Sowed the seed – Siol Sa Chre
Ploughed the furrow – Raon Treabhtha
On our land – In Ar OTalamh
Was golden grain – Arbhair Oir
Through the years the Stoney Street of Carlow
Stand against the wind and rain
From the Slaney River to the Barrow
These old Carlow Stones will remain

Yellow are the primroses
Green the leaf on the tree
Red were the hearts of our heroes
Who gave their lives for liberty.

As already mentioned the “Old Stones of Carlow” refers to the numerous ancient megalithic monuments and other historic stone structures scattered throughout County Carlow. These remnants of Ireland’s prehistoric past offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the people who inhabited this land thousands of years ago.

Some of the most notable “Old Stones” include:

Brownshill Dolmen: This massive portal tomb, also known as the Kernanstown Cromlech, features one of the largest capstones in Europe, estimated to weigh over 100 tons.
 
Cloch-an-Phoill (The Stone of the Hole): A large granite pillar with a distinctive hole, believed to have been used for ritual purposes.  

The Nine Stones: A mysterious stone circle near the village of Ballon, shrouded in local folklore and legends.  

High Crosses: Carlow boasts several well-preserved high crosses, intricately carved stone monuments dating back to the early Christian period.

These “Old Stones” serve as tangible reminders of Carlow’s rich and layered history, offering a unique connection to the distant past. They continue to inspire awe and wonder, attracting visitors from around the world who seek to explore the mysteries and secrets they hold.

The Carlow Fringe Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions. This annual festival, held in the heart of Carlow, Ireland, transforms the town into a hub of artistic energy, attracting both local and international visitors.

The festival’s programme is a delightful mix of visual arts, music, theatre, literature, and film, offering something to captivate every artistic taste. Visitors can immerse themselves in thought-provoking exhibitions, enjoy soul-stirring musical performances, and experience the magic of live theatre. The festival also provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents, fostering a sense of community and artistic growth.

Beyond the performances and exhibitions, the Carlow Fringe Arts Festival creates a unique atmosphere of shared artistic experiences. The streets come alive with impromptu performances, workshops, and interactive installations, inviting everyone to participate and engage with the arts. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply curious to explore new creative horizons, the Carlow Fringe Arts Festival promises an unforgettable experience.

THE SPOON MAN MURAL

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COULD BE A TRIBUTE TO DECLAN WALSH AND THE ARTIST MAY WELL BE ORIEL

I suspect that this mural is by a street artist who operates under the name Oriel and it is possible that it is a tribute to Declan Walsh however there is/was another spoon man who always wore a yellow tie but unfortunately I cannot find any information about that performer.

The best known Spoon Man in Dublin City is Declan Walsh, a remarkable street performer who captivates audiences in Temple Bar with his extraordinary spoon-playing abilities. Despite losing an arm in an accident that cut short his drumming career, Declan’s love for music persevered. He found a new way to express his musicality through the spoons, creating rhythmic and energetic performances that have made him a beloved figure in Dublin’s street music scene.

Spoon Playing: A Rhythmic Tradition from Ancient Times to Today

Spoon playing is a unique and captivating form of percussion music that involves striking two or more spoons together to create rhythmic patterns. It may seem like a simple act, but the technique and artistry behind it have been refined over centuries, resulting in a diverse range of musical expressions.  

Origins:

The history of spoon playing is deeply rooted in ancient cultures. Evidence suggests that people used bones and other similar objects as percussion instruments as far back as prehistoric times. Spoon playing, as we know it today, likely emerged from this tradition.  

Ancient Civilisations: There are depictions of spoon-like instruments in ancient Egyptian tomb paintings and references to spoon playing in ancient Greek and Roman texts.  
Folk Traditions: Spoon playing became an integral part of folk music across many cultures worldwide. It was often used to accompany dances and celebrations, adding a lively and rhythmic element to the festivities.  

Appalachian Music: In the United States, spoon playing gained popularity in Appalachian music, where it blended seamlessly with fiddle tunes, ballads, and other traditional forms.  
Jug Bands: Spoons also found a place in early 20th-century American jug bands, adding a percussive layer to their bluesy and ragtime sounds.  
Popularity Today:

While perhaps not as widespread as other musical instruments, spoon playing continues to thrive in various forms.

Folk and Traditional Music: Spoon playing remains a beloved tradition in folk and traditional music circles around the world.
Contemporary Music: Some contemporary musicians have incorporated spoons into their music, showcasing the instrument’s versatility and unique sound.
Street Performers: As exemplified by Declan Walsh in Dublin, spoon playing is a captivating art form often found in street performances, delighting passersby with its rhythmic energy.
Cultural Celebrations: Spoon playing still plays a role in cultural celebrations and gatherings, connecting people to their heritage and traditions.
Spoon playing’s enduring popularity is a testament to its accessibility, versatility, and ability to transcend cultural boundaries. The instrument’s simple nature allows anyone to pick it up and create music, while its rich history and cultural significance add depth and meaning to the performance.

In a world filled with complex and technologically advanced instruments, the humble spoon remains a powerful tool for musical expression, reminding us of the joy and creativity that can be found in the simplest of things.

MORE MONOCHROME STREET ART BY ORIEL X-236690-1

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UPPER ORMOND QUAY

I still know nothing the street artist who is now operating under the name Oriel so I will take this opportunity to discuss Upper Ormond Quay.

Upper Ormond Quay is a historic quay located on the north side of the River Liffey in Dublin, Ireland. Built around 1800, it is characterised by its granite ashlar construction and is part of a series of continuous quays lining the river. The quay walls are made of ashlar granite blocks with a saddle-back finish and feature iron stays for ladders descending to the water level. It is bounded on the north side by a concrete slab pavement and on the east by Grattan Bridge (formerly Essex Bridge).

Upper Ormond Quay is situated between O’Donovan Rossa Bridge and Grattan Bridge and is significant in the context of Dublin’s economic and maritime development as Ireland’s principal port.

The bridge that was originally named Essex Bridge, in honour of Arthur Capel (1631-83), first Earl of Essex and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland (appointed 1672), was renamed in honour of Henry Grattan was indeed renamed Grattan Bridge in honour of Henry Grattan, an Irish politician and statesman. The renaming occurred in 1875.

COWTOWN STREET ART ON PRUSSIA STREET

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PHOTOGRAPHED 2 APRIL 2024 USING A CANON 1Ds MKIII

If a old Dubliner mentions Cowtown they are likely to be referring to the area around Manor Street, Manor Place, and surrounding roads in Stoneybatter on the north side of Dublin. Here’s a breakdown of its history and how it got the nickname “Cowtown”:

A moo-vellous bit of Dublin history: Stoneybatter’s Cowtown

Stoneybatter, a vibrant neighborhood on Dublin’s northside, has a fascinating past as a centre for the cattle trade. Nicknamed “Cowtown” due to the presence of a massive cattle market in the mid-19th century, the area bustled with activity and became intrinsically linked to its bovine business.

The Rise of Cowtown

Dublin Cattle Market: Established in the mid-1800s near Prussia Street (now the Grangegorman TU Dublin campus), the Dublin Cattle Market was a major economic driver. At its peak, it was one of the largest cattle markets in Europe.

A Hub for the Cattle Trade: Farmers, herders, dealers, and associated businesses flocked to Stoneybatter to be close to the market. This influx created a unique community centred around the cattle trade.

The Name “Cowtown”: The nickname likely arose from the constant presence of cattle on the streets. While some suggest it might have had a slightly derogatory connotation in the past, the name seems to have been adopted with pride by residents, reflecting their community’s identity.
Cowtown’s Legacy

Market Decline: The cattle market’s importance gradually diminished in the early 20th century due to the rise of railways and smaller regional markets. It eventually closed in the 1970s.

Transformation and Reminders: Stoneybatter has undergone significant change and gentrification, but reminders of its Cowtown past remain:

Informative plaques mark the former location of the cattle market.
Street Art: The mural I have shared (with the cow, sunglasses, and cowboy hat) adds a playful touch, referencing the area’s history.

While the Cowtown Cafe is no longer open, its name echoed the area’s history.

Exploring Further:

Bernard Neary’s “Dublin 7” provides a deeper exploration of the area’s local history.
The Come Here To Me! blog (https://comeheretome.com/about/) often features articles on Dublin’s history, including the cattle market.

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