HEADLESS URBAN EXPRESSION

There Is Much To See Here

THIS MURAL OF MASA KHADER IS ON A WALL AT CASTLEWOOD PLACE

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BY EMMALENE BLAKE

Finding information about this mural online proved challenging.

Masa Khader, along with her family, tragically lost her life in an Israeli airstrike on their home in Rafah, Gaza Strip on 21st October. The airstrike claimed the lives of Masa, her 4-year-old sister Lina, and their parents, Loay Khader and Samar al-Atrash.

Samia al-Atrash, Masa’s aunt and the woman seen cradling her lifeless body in the heart-wrenching news photo, reached out to an Irish artist named Emmalene Blake after seeing a mural inspired by that very image.

The mural, painted by Blake in Dublin, features the Palestinian flag as the child’s death shroud, and it has garnered widespread attention on social media. Samia al-Atrash, still alive and residing in Rafah, expressed her connection to the mural and the heartbreaking loss of her family members.

Emmalene Blake is a well-known Irish street artist, teacher, and activist based in Dublin. Here’s what you should know about her:

Artistic Style: Emmalene’s art often centres on social and political themes. She’s known for her large-scale murals that are striking, bold, and often feature iconic figures.

Her work frequently addresses issues like climate change, social justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and representation of women and marginalised communities.

Some of her most famous murals include:
A portrait of George Floyd in Dublin, created in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests.
A depiction of Irish writer Sinéad O’Connor as a statement on mental health and Ireland’s treatment of women.
A mural of Kellie Harrington, celebrating the Irish Olympic boxing champion.
Murals celebrating frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alongside her art, Emmalene works as an art teacher and is a vocal activist. She frequently participates in workshops and talks, and uses her platform to advocate for causes she believes in.

STREET ART ON POOLBEG STREET

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27 MARCH 2024

I was unable to find any information relating to this mural which is actually on Townsend Street rather than Poolbeg Street.

Poolbeg Street was named after a small pool or inlet on the south side of the River Liffey. The name “Poolbeg” referred originally to a tidal pool located out into Dublin harbour and surrounded by sand bars. The names of places like Poolbeg, derived from the words ‘little pool’, date back all the way to medieval Ireland, with the earliest record of the placename dating from around 1488.

Poolbeg Street was established on reclaimed land between Townsend Street and the present-day south quays. This parcel of ground was leased to Luke Gardiner in 1741, and he began to develop houses and shops along this street. It’s home to various businesses and residences and has a rich history tied to the development of Dublin city.

LIBERTY LANE IS KNOWN FOR STREET ART

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PHOTOGRAPHED ON ST PATRICK’S DAY 2024

Liberty Lane is known for its vibrant displays of street art so let us discuss the lane’s history, significance, and safety.

Why Is It Known as Liberty Lane?

The name ‘Liberty Lane’ has its roots in the area’s rich history. The Liberties, the wider district where the lane is situated, were once an independent trading zone outside the official jurisdiction of Dublin City. This autonomous status bestowed a sense of freedom, leading to the name ‘The Liberties’. It’s believed that Liberty Lane got its name from this association.

History

Liberty Lane has witnessed Dublin’s transformation through the ages. Once a hub of working-class life, the lane has seen both decline and revitalisation. In recent years, it has become a canvas for creative expression through street art.

Was It Once Longer?

There is some debate about whether Liberty Lane was once much longer. Some suggest that it might have extended from Kevin Street to Portobello, though there’s little concrete evidence to support this.

The Quality of Street Art

Liberty Lane boasts an impressive collection of street art, ranging from bold murals to intricate stencils. Artists are drawn to the lane for its permissive atmosphere and appreciative audience. The quality of artwork varies, but you’re guaranteed to find some truly striking pieces.

Popularity with Street Artists

There’s an understanding that Liberty Lane offers a relatively safe space for street artists to experiment and showcase their work without the immediate risk of it being removed. While technically street art without specific permission might still be considered illegal, there seems to be a tacit agreement that this lane is a designated area for this form of expression.

Is It Safe to Visit?

I mention this because I had an unpleasant episode on this lane in 2019. Like any urban area, it’s wise to be generally aware of your surroundings. During the day, Liberty Lane is safe to explore and enjoy the artwork. At night, it’s advisable to visit with a companion rather than alone. Stick to the well-lit areas of the lane and be mindful of your belongings.

In Summary

Liberty Lane is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of Dublin and the growing acceptance of street art as a legitimate art form. Its colourful displays and historical significance make it a worthwhile place to explore, especially during the day.

A Different But Important Discussion

The rise of commercial and sponsored street art raises an important question about how it impacts the future of the art form. Here are some arguments for and against this trend.

Arguments Against Commercialisation

Loss of Authenticity: The traditional essence of street art lies in its countercultural roots – an expression outside the confines of galleries and commercialisation. Some fear that as street art becomes more commercialised, it loses its core spirit of rebellion, social commentary, and being art for the people.

Co-optation of the Message: When a brand sponsors street art, there’s a risk of the artist’s original message being diluted or entirely subverted to serve a commercial purpose. This raises concerns about street art turning into a glorified advertising medium.

Gentrification: Commercialisation of street art can contribute to gentrification in areas where these artworks exist. Businesses and developers may use street art to rebrand neighbourhoods, driving up rents and ultimately displacing the very communities that give street art its authenticity.

Arguments in Favour of Commercialisation

Support for Artists: Commercial projects provide opportunities and financial stability for street artists, many of whom previously struggled to sustain themselves with their art. It can offer a path to broader recognition and a livelihood.

Exposure and Accessibility: Commercialisation can bring street art to a wider audience. Brands have the resources to promote these pieces beyond the confines of specific streets, increasing public exposure and appreciation of the art form.

Potential for Powerful Partnerships: While there are risks, commercial partnerships can also result in meaningful collaborations. Brands with socially conscious messages can work with artists to amplify themes like social justice and environmentalism, potentially reaching a larger audience than the artist could alone.

The Evolving Landscape

It’s important to acknowledge that commercial interests are increasingly intertwined with street art. It’s crucial to have an ongoing dialogue about the implications:

Transparency: Full disclosure about the sponsorship or commercial aspects of a work can help the public distinguish between purely artistic works and those with commercial interests.

Balance: Street artists should maintain a balance between commercial projects and independent work to ensure that the spirit of the art form isn’t entirely lost.

Critical Discourse: It’s vital for critics, enthusiasts, and the street art community to evaluate the commercialisation of street art with a critical eye, questioning its long-term effects.

Conclusion

The growing presence of commercial street art is a complex trend with both benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the future of street art will rely on how artists, critics, and the public grapple with these issues, hopefully maintaining the core spirit of the art form while navigating new artistic realities.

TWO FOR THE PRICE OF ONE

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DUBLINBIKES DOCKING STATION 75 AND A MURAL BY HOLLY PEREIRA

Holly Pereira is a muralist & illustrator based in Dublin. Her hand-painted murals are colourful, fun and bold, and create bright and exuberant environments in which we are invited to play. Holly often gets inspiration from folk art and typography.

Other Well-Known Street Artists

Maser: Ireland’s most prominent street artist, his style is bold and geometric, often with strong social commentary. His works address themes of love, equality, and social change.

James Earley: Creates stunning large-scale photorealistic murals. His work frequently portrays iconic Irish figures, historical moments, and explores themes of Irish identity.

Aches: This artist brings vibrant energy many walls with a whimsical style. Expect playful characters, often animals, rendered in bold colours.

Subset: A Dublin-based collective producing dynamic murals infused with social, psychological, and political themes. Their work is often thought-provoking and encourages contemplation.

Best Locations for Street Art in Dublin

Temple Bar: The cultural centre of Dublin boasts a high concentration of artwork tucked along its cobbled streets, alleys, and on the sides of bars and shops.

The Liberties (Dublin 8): Immerse yourself in this historic area brimming with diverse and exciting street art.

Camden Street Area [Specifically Liberty Lane]: This bustling district offers a mix of large, commissioned murals and smaller gems waiting to be discovered.

Portobello (near the Grand Canal): Explore this trendy neighbourhood to find smaller-scale but equally impressive artworks.


Additional Tips

Keep Your Eyes Peeled: Dublin’s street art scene is always changing! Don’t limit yourself to these areas. Art can pop up in unexpected places.

Consider a Tour: Guided walking tours dedicated to street art provide a deeper understanding of the pieces, the artists, and the city’s relationship with this art form.
Check Out the Website: Dublin Walls (https://dublinwalls.com/) features maps and information on artists and their works.

ST PETER’S LANE

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I THOUGHT THAT I HAD MADE AN ERROR BY REFERRING TO IT AS CABRA PARK LANE IN THE PAST

I USED A SAMYANG 12mm F2.0 LENS

It’s a small lane connecting Cabra Park and St. Peter’s Road and it is situated in Phibsborough which is frequently described as a vibrant neighbourhood on Dublin’s Northside.

Previously known as Cabra Park Lane. The recent name change to St. Peter’s Lane is a reference to the nearby St. Peter’s Church, a prominent landmark on the North Circular Road. As a matter of interest there another location for street art on the Southside named Peters Place near Charlemont Tram Stop.

Was An Urban Art Hub

St. Peter’s Lane had gained a reputation as an open-air canvas for street artists and one could expect find vibrant murals, stencils, and other forms of street art adorning its walls, making it an interesting spot for photography enthusiasts. Back before the Covid-19 lockdowns the artwork was ever-changing, so you might find something new on every visit!

Ambiance

The combination of street art and older surrounding architecture once gave the lane a unique and somewhat bohemian atmosphere and as it was much less known than other similar locations it offered a more “local” experience.

How to Find It

If you’re exploring Phibsborough, St. Peter’s Lane is easy to find off St. Peter’s Road or along Cabra Park. Online maps will guide you precisely, and websites like Excellent Street Images (my site) feature extensive photography of the lane’s artwork.

Additional Notes

According to a not so current tourist guide “due to its growing popularity as an artistic spot, expect to encounter other people appreciating or photographing the artwork. However, Like any urban environment, be mindful of your surroundings”.

Today there were three elderly women who appeared lost and somewhat horrified by the condition of the complex of lanes and I was the only photographer.

WHAT IS STREET ART

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A GENERAL DISCUSSION

Street Art: A Global Tapestry of Urban Expression

Street art explodes across the globe, a vibrant and defiant form of expression that knows no borders. It transforms our public spaces into ever-evolving galleries, challenging perceptions and sparking conversations from Dublin to Delhi, São Paulo to Sydney.

The Diverse Forms of International Street Art

Stencils: This quick and impactful technique remains a favourite for its speed and potential for social critique, as seen in the work of globally celebrated artists like Banksy. Street art stencils address diverse themes from politics to pop culture.

Murals: Grand-scale murals add splashes of colour and thought-provoking messages to cityscapes. Artists like Brazil’s Eduardo Kobra create incredible pieces with hyper-realistic portraits, while others favour abstract or socially-conscious themes.

Paste-ups: From witty one-liners to large-scale portraits, paste-ups bring pre-made images to the streets. They provide a platform for emerging artists and offer a quick way to spread messages.

Stickers: A testament to DIY creativity, stickers carry slogans, humour, and artistic expression. They pop up everywhere, forming a diverse, miniature artwork ecosystem within cities.

Yarn Bombing: This joyful movement softens harsh urban landscapes with colourful knitted and crocheted creations. It’s playful yet powerful, a reminder that art can be found in unexpected materials.

Guerrilla Sculptures: Sculptors break free from traditional galleries, placing thought-provoking installations throughout public spaces. They range from small, cheeky interventions to towering, interactive pieces.

The Heart of Street Art

Beyond technique, street art’s power lies in its purpose:

Global Dialogue: Artists address universal issues like inequality, environmental concerns, or the struggle for freedom. They create a shared visual language that transcends borders.

Challenging Norms: Street art pushes boundaries, questioning authority and reclaiming public space. It gives a voice to the marginalised and amplifies community perspectives.

Unexpected Beauty: Sometimes it’s simply about celebrating beauty in overlooked places. Artists inject vibrancy and surprise into the everyday.
The Irish Street Art Scene

Ireland boasts its own dynamic street art movement:

Northern Ireland: Belfast’s Hit The North festival brings renowned international artists, while also fostering homegrown talent. Murals in both Belfast and Derry/Londonderry often reflect the region’s unique history and ongoing social conversations.

Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Limerick and other cities showcase works by artists like Maser, whose colourful, geometric pieces bring a sense of optimism and unity. Waterford Walls festival attracts global artists, turning the city into a stunning open-air gallery.


Constant Evolution

Street art, like the cities it inhabits, is forever changing. New artists emerge, techniques evolve, and technology adds new dimensions. This ephemeral art movement reflects the pulse of our times, demanding to be noticed, debated, and ultimately, experienced.

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