28 JANUARY 2025
Liberty Lane, a small side street tucked away behind the houses on the main street , off Camden Row and the hustle and bustle of Camden Street , was once a vibrant hub of street art in Dublin. Located to the rear of Whelan’s Pub , this hidden alleyway was a gem where creativity flourished and the walls served as an ever-evolving canvas for some of the city’s most talented artists. Today, however, its reputation as a must-see destination for street art enthusiasts has arguably diminished. While it still boasts an array of colourful murals and graffiti art, the quality and quantity have arguably declined, raising the question: is Liberty Lane still worth a visit for those seeking the best of Dublin’s street art scene?
Liberty Lane: A Laneway with a Past
A map from 1837-1842 shows that Liberty Lane once stretched from Kevin Street to the South Circular Road . However, the construction of a Georgian terrace at the junction of the South Circular Road cut it off from the canal, effectively shortening the laneway . In the early 1700s, before the terrace was built, Liberty Lane would have been a hive of activity, with all sorts of people and trades passing through its narrow confines .
One notable event in The Liberties’ history was a devastating fire in 1875 that broke out in a malt house and warehouse . While the fire itself caused significant damage, the most peculiar aspect was the cause of the 13 casualties: alcohol poisoning from the whiskey that flowed through the streets as a result of the blaze . Ironically, the fire’s spread to a nearby pigsty might have saved lives, as the screaming livestock alerted residents to the danger .
The Rise of Liberty Lane’s Street Art Scene
While the exact origins of Liberty Lane’s street art scene remain somewhat obscure, it’s clear that the laneway’s walls provided a unique and attractive canvas for artists seeking to express themselves. Over time, Liberty Lane evolved into a dynamic outdoor gallery, showcasing a diverse range of styles and techniques.
A Canvas for Freedom and Experimentation
One of the key factors contributing to Liberty Lane’s popularity was its accessibility and the transient nature of the artwork . Artists could freely experiment and create without the constraints of formal galleries or the fear of permanent displays. This fostered a sense of community and collaboration, with artists often building upon or responding to each other’s work . The art is constantly being recycled, and up-and-coming artists often use the walls to hone their skills .
A Who’s Who of Dublin Street Art
Some of the prominent artists who have contributed to Liberty Lane’s street art scene include Dan Leo, Aches, ADW, and Brutto . These artists, along with many others, helped to establish Liberty Lane as a must-see destination for art lovers in Dublin. Maser, a well-known Dublin street artist, even set up shop in Liberty Lane eleven years ago . One of the most evocative murals the city has seen graced the walls of the Bernard Shaw, a nearby pub and cultural hub .
Dublin is fortunate to have a vibrant community of urban artists, street artists, and muralists . Artists like Fink, Subset, and James Earley are responsible for a substantial amount of the art seen throughout the city . The narrow lanes and streets of Temple Bar, a popular tourist area, are a feast of street art, featuring murals by Subset, James Earley, Maser, Kinmx, and others .