HEADLESS URBAN EXPRESSION

There Is Much To See Here

ETAIN IS A MURAL BY NINA VALKHOFF

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AT MEAT MARKET LANE IN DROGHEDA

As the laneway is narrow it was difficult to photograph this large mural in Drogheda when I visited to town a few days ago.

While the people of Drogheda may not have the best mural in the world they do have the best one in Ireland!
The results are in for Street Art Cities best of 2022 global competition and Muralist Nina Valkhoff’s “Étaín” mural has placed 38th out of 100 of the Best Murals across the globe! However, there is still cause for celebration as the mural has ranked highest out of the four Irish nominations

Street Art Cities is the largest street art community in the world.

Forgotten buildings, laneways and entire urban areas can lend themselves to colour and vibrant storytelling when murals are installed and used to ignite old stories, as is the case with Étaín and the five other mythological murals that make up the DRAWDA Urban Art Project.

History Of Meat Market Lane

Origin of the Name: As the name suggests, Meat Market Lane was once the central location for Drogheda’s meat market. It housed wooden sheds or “shambles” where butchers sold their wares.
18th Century Relocation: In 1778, a decision was made to move the meat vendors from open stalls on West Street to a more organised space along the north side of Dyer Street. This led to the establishment of the meat market in what is now known as Meat Market Lane.

Transition and Modern Times: Over time, the meat market’s function diminished, and the lane evolved into a passage connecting West Street and Dyer Street. In recent years, it has seen revitalisation efforts, including the addition of the “Étaín” mural as part of the DRAWDA Urban Art Project. It now houses some businesses, including a restaurant.
 
Meat Market Lane runs parallel to West Street, one of Drogheda’s main thoroughfares.  
It connects West Street to Dyer Street, providing a convenient pedestrian walkway between the two.
It is located close to Drogheda Town Centre, a popular shopping destination.  

Significance

Meat Market Lane serves as a reminder of Drogheda’s rich commercial history, reflecting the town’s evolution over centuries.
The presence of the “Étaín” mural and its connection to the DRAWDA Urban Art Trail highlight the lane’s growing importance in Drogheda’s cultural scene.

Nina’s mural is part of the DRAWDA multidisciplinary public arts programme, launched in Drogheda, Co. Louth between November 2021, and April 2022, culminating in an Urban Art Trail throughout Drogheda that focuses on key figures and moments from our mythological past.

Nina Valkhoff is a talented muralist and painter based in Rotterdam, Netherlands. She’s been creating large-scale murals for over two decades and is known for her distinctive style, often featuring endangered species surrounded by vibrant flora.  

Some notable aspects of her work include:

Focus on nature: Her murals frequently depict animals and plants, often highlighting endangered species to raise awareness about conservation.  
Large-scale projects: She specialises in large-scale murals that transform urban landscapes, adding colour and visual interest to buildings and walls.  
Vibrant colour palette: Her work is characterised by a bold use of colour, creating eye-catching and dynamic compositions.
International recognition: She has created murals in various countries and her work has been featured in the Street Art Cities’ “Best of 2022” global competition.  
In addition to the “Étaín” mural in Drogheda, some of her other notable works include murals for the STRAAT Museum in Amsterdam and collaborations with institutions like the Mauritshuis museum.  

If you’d like to learn more about Nina Valkhoff and her art, you can visit her website or search for her work on social media platforms.

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 UPRIGHT MEADOW ON COLLEGE STREET IN CARLOW

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BY SAIDHBHIN GIBSON

When I visited in August 2024 there was little sign of living plants and I do not know why, maybe it is no longer maintained?

Saidhbhín Gibson’s work explores the framing of the non-human environment for and by contemporary society. She employs multifarious methods of production in the manufacture of the work. Video, photography, drawing, sculpture and needlepoint lace are used to examine the interference by humans of the Natural world.

The Upright Meadow is a living art installation located on College Street in Carlow Town, Ireland. It was created by artist Saidhbhín Gibson in 2017 as part of a town-wide project commissioning artists to respond to chosen wall spaces.

Here’s what makes it unique:

Living wall: Instead of traditional art materials, the “canvas” is a wall populated with wildflowers commonly found growing in the crevices of stone walls.
Plant Diversity: The installation showcases a variety of wild plants, highlighting the biodiversity often overlooked in urban environments.
Evolving Artwork: The Upright Meadow changes throughout the year as the plants grow, flower, and seed, creating an ever-evolving display.
Inspiration from Nature: The artwork was inspired by a nearby pocket of land rich in wildflowers, grasses, and wildlife.
Additional details:

The plants used were collected over eight months before being implanted into the wall.
The installation contrasts with the more manicured, commercial bedding plants often seen in urban planters.
It aims to draw attention to the beauty and resilience of wild plants.

Pure Thinking Community Group’s art project in Carlow. It seems they were involved in at least two projects:

Larger-Than-Life Portraits Project (2015)
 
This project was part of the lead-up to the Carlow Arts Festival in 2015.  
Artists from the Pure Thinking Community created oversized portraits of inspirational people from Carlow.  
These portraits were displayed on the exterior panels of the Carlow County Post Office during the festival.
The project involved workshops facilitated by artist Iwona Nartowska O’Reilly, with 29 artists participating.  
The portraits showcased a diverse range of individuals, reflecting the vibrant Carlow community.  

Wall Space Art Project (2017)
This project commissioned artists to respond to chosen wall spaces throughout Carlow Town.
It aimed to enhance the visual appeal of the town and promote local artists.
Saidhbhín Gibson’s “The Upright Meadow” was one of the artworks created for this project.
Other artists also contributed to the project, creating a variety of artworks in different locations.
It seems Pure Thinking Community Group played a key role in facilitating both of these projects, bringing together artists and creating opportunities for them to showcase their work and contribute to the cultural landscape of Carlow.

‘Mother of all The Liberties – Imelda May’ by Urnique Steve. 

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MEATH STREET DUBLIN

Artist Biography:

Urnique / Steve O’Toole is a street stalking creative and spoken-word/poet. Completing his first Dublin Canvas ‘Welcome To His Head’ for his good & old friend, the legendary Irish Poet & Writer ‘Pat Ingoldsby’ on Vernon Ave. Clontarf in July 2023. Having received a fantastic public & arts reaction to same, Steve set about this year in the same frame of mind i.e. ‘To celebrate well known and living creative people, under-recognised for their contribution to Irish arts & culture’ (Whom in life have yet to receive a much well deserved ‘Blue Plaque’ accreditation). The Blue Plaque artwork on ‘Pat’s’ Dublin Canvas reads ‘Not Dead Yet’. 

Artwork Description: Renowned multi-award-winning singer-songwriter, poet, actor, community & social activist and a proud Dub. Imelda May is a household Irish name and another of Steve’s creative heros. Imelda has shared the stage with a who’s who of world music, yet she takes it all in her stride retaining at her very heart (and never forgets) she is a true Dubliner & Liberties Belle. Steve’s artwork also features Imelda wearing a hand painted t-shirt signature of her great friend Sinead O’Connor, captured by UK photographer Ceila Bartlett at the Cambridge Folk Festival in 2023. 

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/urnique.steve

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