PUBLIC ART 

THE PROCLAMATION SCULPTURE

24/03/2024

THE PROCLAMATION SCULPTURE [INTENDED TO REPRESENT THE 7 WHO SIGNED BUT THERE ARE 14 BRONZE FIGURES]

The Proclamation Sculpture, created by Rowan Gillespie, stands solemnly on Inchicore Road in Dublin, directly across from the imposing Kilmainham Gaol. The sculpture consists of a series of blindfolded bronze figures arranged in a circle, surrounding a central table bearing a copy of the Irish Proclamation of Independence.

Major Event Represented

This poignant work of art commemorates a defining moment in Irish history: the Easter Rising of 1916. While initially intended to honour the seven leaders who signed the Proclamation of Independence and were subsequently executed by the British, the sculpture has a deeper significance. In memory of his grandfather, James Creed Meredith, and to acknowledge the broader sacrifice, artist Rowan Gillespie included seven additional figures. This brings the total to fourteen, representing all those executed in connection to the Rising and emphasising the collective struggle for Irish independence.

It should be noted: Fifteen of those (including all seven signatories of the Proclamation) had their sentences confirmed by Maxwell and fourteen were executed by firing squad at Kilmainham Gaol between 3 and 12 May. Maxwell stated that only the "ringleaders" and those proven to have committed "cold-blooded murder" would be executed. However, some of those executed were not leaders and did not kill anyone, such as Willie Pearse and John MacBride; Thomas Kent did not come out at all but he was executed for the killing of a police officer during the raid on his house the week after the Rising. The most prominent leader to escape execution was Éamon de Valera, Commandant of the 3rd Battalion, who did so partly because of his American birth. Hobson went into hiding, re-emerging after the June amnesty, largely to scorn.

Reason for Location

The sculpture's placement across from Kilmainham Gaol is deeply symbolic. This was the site where the leaders of the Easter Rising were imprisoned and faced their deaths.  The juxtaposition between the sculpture and the prison creates a powerful sense of remembrance and confronts the legacy of the Rising.

Design & Thought Process

Each figure in the sculpture is blindfolded, a stark reminder of the leaders facing the firing squad. Their bodies are riddled with bullet holes, a visceral representation of the violence they endured.  The central table prominently displays the Proclamation of Independence, highlighting the ideals for which they fought.  Inscribed at the base of each figure are the execution orders and verdicts, adding a personalising touch while emphasising their collective sacrifice.

Materials

The use of bronze lends a sense of permanence and monumentality to the sculpture, appropriate for its commemorative purpose. Stone is likely used as a structural element for the base or the central table.

Artist - Rowan Gillespie

Rowan Gillespie is an Irish sculptor born in Dublin, known for his thought-provoking and often commemorative public works.  His other notable sculptures include the Famine Memorial on Custom House Quay, Dublin, and various figures of historical importance. Gillespie's work frequently grapples with themes of Irish history, memory, and trauma, presented with a sense of stark realism.

Tourist Attraction

The Proclamation Sculpture attracts visitors due to its historical significance; the Easter Rising holds immense importance in shaping Irish identity.  Its location near the popular tourist destination of Kilmainham Gaol increases its visibility.  Furthermore, the sculpture's somber beauty and visceral nature evoke a powerful emotional response, making it a memorable and moving experience for visitors.

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