MARCH 2025
WILLIAM'S PHOTO DIARY
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OH YES THERE ARE AMERICAN CARS IN THE EU [THIS RED FORD WAS PARKED ON MOUNTJOY STREET]
A former manager from London, working with me in Dublin, once remarked on the number of 'foreign' cars in Ireland. It wasn't until someone pointed out that Ireland is an independent nation, not part of the UK, that she realised her error. Her initial perception stemmed from a lingering assumption that 'foreign' meant 'non-British,' a common oversight for those accustomed to the UK's previous relationship with Ireland. This anecdote, though lighthearted, underscores how easily assumptions about national identity and belonging can shape our perceptions.
However, Ireland has a significant, albeit often overlooked, history with the motor industry. Notably, Ireland played a crucial role in the early development and adoption of the automobile.
Ford's First Overseas Venture: Henry Ford established his first overseas manufacturing plant in Cork in 1917, marking a pivotal moment in both Ford's global expansion and Ireland's industrial history.
A Tragic First: In 1869, Mary Ward, an Irish scientist, became the world's first recorded automobile fatality, a somber reminder of the early risks associated with motorised transport.
The Pneumatic Tire Revolution: John Boyd Dunlop, hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, revolutionised transportation with his 1888 invention of the pneumatic tire. His first factory was then located in Dublin.
It is interesting to note, that even today in the EU, American cars can be found, as evidenced by their presence on streets such as Mountjoy Street in Dublin.
These historical connections, along with the everyday reality of diverse car brands on Irish roads, paint a rich and complex picture of Ireland's relationship with the automobile.
THE FOUR MASTERS PARK
THE FOUR MASTERS PARK IS NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC [ORIGINALLY KNOWN AS THE MATER PLOT]
The Four Masters Park, originally known as the Mater Plot, on Eccles Street, Dublin, has now been opened to the public. This small, formally laid-out park provides a picturesque foreground to the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital and St. Joseph’s Church.
For many years, the park remained closed to the public, despite Dublin City Council maintaining it in excellent condition. The land is owned by the Mater Hospital, which initially restricted access. Sheila Ahern, a dedicated committee member of the Berkeley Road Area Residents Association, spearheaded a long-standing campaign to open the park. Her efforts culminated in a motion proposed by Green Party Councillor Janet Horner at a Central Area meeting on 8th March 2022. The motion called on the Mater Hospital to grant public access, and shortly thereafter, a hospital spokesperson indicated their intention to facilitate this 'in the near future'.
The park's history is intertwined with the now-cancelled Metro North project. Historical records indicate plans to integrate the park with a 'Mater Stop' on the original Metro North line. A partially constructed underground structure, often referred to as a 'box', remains beneath the hospital grounds, a remnant of these abandoned plans. The shift to the MetroLink project and a revised route ultimately led to the cancellation of the original Metro North plans.
Today, Sunday 9th March 2025, the park’s Eccles Street gate was found unlocked, revealing a refurbished space with new railings protecting the historic High Cross and the 'Healing Hands' sculpture.
The park features two significant artworks:
The Four Masters Memorial (1876): This High Cross, situated on a large plinth, commemorates the Franciscan friars of Donegal town who compiled the 'Annals of the Four Masters' between 1632 and 1636. Commissioned by Sir William Wilde (1815-1876), father of Oscar Wilde, the memorial reflects his deep interest in Irish history and his active role within the Royal Irish Academy. The sculpture was created by James Cahill (d. 1890), a Dublin-based sculptor who trained under John Hogan. Cahill also created the statue of Daniel O'Connell in Ennis.
The Healing Hands (2000): This hollow bronze sphere, containing an eternal flame and supported by a tree-trunk style pedestal, was erected to celebrate the third millennium. It symbolises the healing ministry of Christ and the care provided by the Mater Hospital, founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1861. The eternal flame represents God's everlasting love. Artist Tony O’Malley, originally from Tipperary and based in West Cork, created the sculpture, incorporating handprints from patients and staff at the hospital. This person-centric design reflects the collaborative nature of healing. O'Malley's previous work, 'Universal Links for Human Rights,' influenced the creation of 'The Healing Hands'.
The reopening of the Four Masters Park marks a significant moment for the local community, providing a green space for residents and visitors to enjoy.
FOREIGN CARS IN IRELAND
OH YES THERE ARE AMERICAN CARS IN THE EU [THIS RED FORD WAS PARKED ON MOUNTJOY STREET]
A former manager from London, working with me in Dublin, once remarked on the number of 'foreign' cars in Ireland. It wasn't until someone pointed out that Ireland is an independent nation, not part of the UK, that she realised her error. Her initial perception stemmed from a lingering assumption that 'foreign' meant 'non-British,' a common oversight for those accustomed to the UK's previous relationship with Ireland. This anecdote, though lighthearted, underscores how easily assumptions about national identity and belonging can shape our perceptions.
However, Ireland has a significant, albeit often overlooked, history with the motor industry. Notably, Ireland played a crucial role in the early development and adoption of the automobile.
Ford's First Overseas Venture: Henry Ford established his first overseas manufacturing plant in Cork in 1917, marking a pivotal moment in both Ford's global expansion and Ireland's industrial history.
A Tragic First: In 1869, Mary Ward, an Irish scientist, became the world's first recorded automobile fatality, a somber reminder of the early risks associated with motorised transport.
The Pneumatic Tire Revolution: John Boyd Dunlop, hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, revolutionised transportation with his 1888 invention of the pneumatic tire. His first factory was then located in Dublin.
It is interesting to note, that even today in the EU, American cars can be found, as evidenced by their presence on streets such as Mountjoy Street in Dublin.
These historical connections, along with the everyday reality of diverse car brands on Irish roads, paint a rich and complex picture of Ireland's relationship with the automobile.
LILY AND LOLLY YEATS
A PAINT-A-BOX STREET ART TRIBUTE TO LILY AND LOLLY YEATS [LOCATED NEAR ST NAHI'S CHURCH]
Lily and Lolly Yeats: Life, Work, and Family Connections
Lily (Susan) Yeats (1866-1949) and Lolly (Elizabeth) Yeats (1868-1940) were integral figures in the Irish Arts and Crafts movement. Sisters of the renowned poet William Butler Yeats and artist Jack Butler Yeats, they were born into a highly creative family. Their parents were John Butler Yeats, an artist, and Susan Yeats (née Pollexfen). The family's history encompassed periods in Ireland (Sligo, Dublin) and England (London), and they faced financial hardships, which spurred the sisters to become industrious.
The artistic and literary atmosphere of their family significantly influenced their creative paths. They were exposed to the Arts and Crafts movement, notably through connections with figures like William Morris.
Their contributions are particularly evident in Dundrum, County Dublin:
Dun Emer and Cuala: The sisters were deeply involved in the Dun Emer Industries, founded in Dundrum in 1902. Dun Emer was a crafts collective that aimed to produce beautiful Irish-made goods.
Following a separation from Dun Emer, they established the Cuala Press and Cuala Industries in nearby Churchtown. Lily specialised in embroidery, while Lolly focused on printing and art teaching.
St. Nahi's Church:
Lily and Lolly Yeats are interred in the graveyard of St. Nahi's Church in Dundrum, marking their final resting place.
Within St. Nahi's Church, they created altar tapestries, showcasing their artistic skills.
Artistic Contributions:
Lily's expertise in embroidery was highly regarded, and she worked with notable figures in the Arts and Crafts movement.
Lolly's work in printing, particularly with the Cuala Press, contributed significantly to the Irish literary revival, publishing works by their brother W.B. Yeats and other Irish writers.
Their work was a large contribution to the Irish cultural and literary revival. They where both very talented women, who made great contributions to the arts and crafts movement.
GREEN OPAL SERPENTINE STONE
THE FAMILY BY WILLIAM W CHEWA [GREEN OPAL SERPENTINE STONE]
Holy Cross Church in Dundrum, in preparation for the 2018 World Meeting of Families in Dublin, underwent a significant restoration, including the creation of a new Pastoral Centre. To commemorate this event, the parish acquired a modern sculpture by Zimbabwean artist William W. Chewa. Originally titled "The Christian Family" (2015), and carved from Green Opal, a type of Serpentine stone, the piece now bears a bronze plaque stating "The Family (2016)". It remains unclear whether this signifies a renaming or the existence of multiple copies.
William W. Chewa, renowned for his expressive stone carvings, began his artistic journey in Zimbabwe at a young age. His work often reflects the essence of human connection, and "The Family" is no exception, capturing the love and unity inherent within familial bonds. Green Opal, chosen for its vibrant hue and workable texture, is commonly used in Zimbabwean sculpture. The intricate process of shaping this stone involves specialised tools, resulting in detailed and visually appealing forms. The sculpture's verdant colour further enhances its symbolic meaning, aligning perfectly with the World Meeting of Families' theme, "The Gospel of the Family: Joy for the World."
This piece, prominently displayed in the church grounds near Emmaus House, serves as a permanent reminder of the centrality of love within the Christian family. Its acquisition was facilitated by Fr. Kieran, demonstrating the community's dedication to celebrating family life.
The World Meeting of Families itself serves several vital purposes: strengthening families through resources and support, promoting the Gospel of the Family, fostering dialogue and understanding between diverse families, and celebrating the beauty and importance of family life. This event, like Chewa's sculpture, underscores the family as a source of love, support, and joy.
HOLY CROSS CHURCH
THE HOLY CROSS CHURCH IN DUNDRUM [ORIGINALLY CONSTRUCTED 1878]
Notably, Blessed Columba Marmion served as a curate in the church from 1881 to 1882.
Holy Cross Church in Dundrum, Dublin, stands as a testament to the evolving nature of community and faith. Originally constructed in 1878, replacing an earlier chapel from 1837, the church has witnessed significant transformations. Architect G.C. Ashlin designed the initial structure, and the parish of Dundrum was subsequently established, separating from the larger Booterstown parish. A mid-20th-century expansion in 1956 substantially increased the church's size, reflecting the growing local population. Notably, Blessed Columba Marmion served as a curate here from 1881 to 1882, adding to the church's historical significance.
However, the church's current interior appearance is primarily the result of a comprehensive refurbishment project completed in recent years, approximately around 2016 and 2017. This extensive renovation, born from an architectural competition, dramatically modernised the interior, creating a bright and welcoming space. The project included the construction of new parish offices and a pastoral centre, integrating modern facilities with the existing historical structure. Furthermore, the choir balcony was extended, the organ restored and upgraded, and the baptismal area relocated to the centre of the church, symbolising its central role in the community. This blending of historical architecture with contemporary design reflects the parish's commitment to providing accessible and functional spaces, ensuring Holy Cross Church remains a vibrant and relevant focal point for the Dundrum community.
HALFPENNY
THE HALFPENNY BRIDGE [OFFICIALLY KNOWN AS THE LIFFEY BRIDGE]
The Halfpenny Bridge, officially known as the Liffey Bridge, is an iconic pedestrian bridge spanning the River Liffey in Dublin, Ireland. Its origins date back to 1816, when it was constructed as a replacement for the ferry service operated by William Walsh. Walsh, who owned the ferry, was granted the right to build the bridge on the condition that he charged a halfpenny toll for each person crossing, hence its popular name.
The bridge's elegant design, featuring a series of cast iron arches, has made it a beloved landmark and a favourite subject for photographers. Initially, the toll was intended to offset the cost of construction and maintenance. However, the toll remained in place until 1919, long after the bridge's initial costs were recouped.
The structure is comprised of decorative cast iron, with latticework sides and ornate lamps, giving it a distinctive Victorian-era aesthetic. It's a testament to the craftsmanship of the time, and its enduring presence reflects its importance to Dublin's history and urban fabric.
In recent years, the Halfpenny Bridge has undergone restoration work to preserve its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. It remains a vital link for pedestrians crossing the Liffey, connecting the bustling areas of Temple Bar and the north quays. The bridge's central location and its status as a cultural icon make it a popular meeting point and a symbol of Dublin itself.
SEPIAN BLUE
SEPIAN BLUE BY NASSER AZAM 24 FEBRUARY 2025 [ORIGINALLY LOCATED AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE TO THE BOTANIC GARDENS]
Located within the landscape of the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin, "Sepian Blue" stands as a captivating testament to the power of bronze sculpture. This monumental work by Nasser Azam, relocated to a prominent position within the gardens, was originally exhibited as part of Sculpture in Context, Ireland's premier showcase of public sculpture [Note: the 2024 exhibition was cancelled].
I can confirm that Sculpture in Context is indeed planned to return in 2025 to the National Botanic Gardens. According to their official website, Sculpture in Context is committed to exhibiting again in 2025. They are also planning a series of fringe events alongside the main exhibition. It seems they used the time after the 2024 cancellation to restructure and secure funding, ensuring the festival can continue with its usual ambition and scale.
So, it's good news for sculpture lovers! "Sepian Blue" will have company in the Gardens once again.
Sculpture in Context: A Legacy of Public Art
Sculpture in Context, held annually at the Botanic Gardens, provides a unique platform for artists to display their work amidst the garden's natural beauty. Sadly, the 2024 edition was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. However, "Sepian Blue" made such a lasting impression that it was acquired for the Botanic Gardens' permanent collection, a testament to its artistic merit and enduring appeal.
Nasser Azam: A Life in Art
Born in Jhelum, Pakistan, in 1963, Nasser Azam moved to London with his family at the age of seven. His artistic journey began in 1980 while pursuing a business degree at the University of Birmingham. Early recognition came swiftly with a feature in a 1983 BBC documentary. Azam's artistic development was further enriched by extensive travels across Japan, America, and Europe, broadening his perspectives and influencing his creative vision.
In 2007, Azam was appointed Artist-in-Residence at the County Hall Gallery in London, culminating in a retrospective exhibition of his work. He gained further acclaim for his "Anatomica" series, a powerful exploration of the human form that merges imagery from fashion magazines and medical textbooks.
Sculpting on a Grand Scale
Azam's sculptural achievements are equally remarkable. In 2012, he unveiled "Athena," a breathtaking bronze sculpture standing over twelve metres tall at London City Airport. This monumental work holds the distinction of being the tallest bronze sculpture in the United Kingdom, a symbol of strength and grace against the modern architectural backdrop.
His other notable sculptures include "The Dance," a large bronze piece dynamically capturing movement and unveiled on London's South Bank in 2008. With "Sepian Blue" now gracing the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, Azam's artistic legacy extends across borders and mediums.
Artistic Style and Enduring Influence
Azam's semi-abstract painting style, often drawing comparisons to Willem de Kooning, is characterized by biomorphic forms and expressive gestural marks that subtly encode the human figure. His paintings, typically employing a restricted palette, possess a profound evocative power, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of the human condition.
In 2010, Azam acquired the Morris Singer Art Foundry, subsequently relaunching it as the Zahra Modern Art Foundry. This significant move underscores his dedication to preserving traditional sculptural techniques and fostering the future of this art form.
BUILDINGS OF INTEREST
DESI CREW RESTAURANT
I have not seen the menu so I can only guess as to what you can expect until I actually have a meal there [note I did attend the opening and was impressed by the sample dishes]
"Desi Crew" is aiming to bring the vibrant and diverse flavours of South Indian street food to Dublin! Here's what you might expect if you visit:
Food:
Focus on South Indian cuisine: Expect dishes from the regions of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Think dosas (thin, crispy crepes made from fermented batter), idlis (steamed rice cakes), vadas (savory lentil doughnuts), and uttapams (thicker pancakes with toppings).
Street food style: This likely means the food will be casual, flavourful, and perhaps served in a way reminiscent of street stalls in India.
Variety of chutneys and sambars: South Indian food is known for its accompanying sauces and dips. You'll probably find coconut chutney, tomato chutney, sambar (a lentil-based vegetable stew), and perhaps even some more unique regional chutneys.
Spice levels: South Indian food can be spicy, but a restaurant catering to a wider audience will likely offer a range of spice levels to suit different palates. Don't hesitate to ask for your preferred level of heat.
Fresh ingredients: Given the emphasis on street food, you can hope for fresh, vibrant ingredients and bold flavours.
Atmosphere:
Casual and lively: Street food is all about a bustling, energetic atmosphere. The restaurant might have bright colors, lively music, and a casual setting.
"Desi Crew" is a promising addition to Dublin's food scene, offering a taste of authentic South Indian street food. If you're looking for a casual, flavourful, and potentially spicy dining experience, it's definitely worth checking out!
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