SCULPTURE IN CONTEXT

THIS EVENT IS BACK IN THE BOTANIC GARDENS

Sculpture in Context returns to the National Botanic Gardens and will celebrate its 40th Anniversary this September

Thursday 4th September to Friday 10th October 2025

Sculpture in Context is the largest dedicated sculpture exhibition in Ireland. This unique exhibition will show a diverse range of sculptures by renowned and emerging contemporary artists, each of whom brings a fresh perspective and innovative approach to their work. Set against the backdrop of vibrant plant life and breathtaking natural scenery, Sculpture in Context will offer an immersive experience for visitors in the historic surroundings of the National Botanic Gardens.

3 DAYS TO GO

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3 DAYS TO GO

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AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS

SCULPTURE IN CONTEXT 2023

In 2023, the committee made the tough call to hold one final exhibition and then take a break to secure a new funding source. They launched a petition and reapplied for funding from organizations like the Arts Council and Dublin City Council. The hope was that by taking a step back, they could secure the necessary financial support to ensure the long-term future and continued success of the exhibition. The break in 2024 was a strategic move to address this fundamental issue and allow the organization to regroup and find a more stable financial footing.

AUGUST 2025 GALLERY

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JULY 2025 GALLERY

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JUNE 2025 GALLERY

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PHOTO CATALOGS

PARKS AND GARDENS

The development of public parks in Ireland has a rich history. Early parks, such as Phoenix Park in Dublin, were established in the 17th century as royal hunting grounds. Over time, the concept evolved from exclusive domains for the wealthy to public spaces accessible to all. The 19th century saw a shift towards creating parks for public benefit, influenced by philanthropists and later by city councils that recognized the importance of green spaces for urban populations. Many of Dublin's parks, for example, were once part of large landed estates.

SLIDE SHOWS HAVE PROVED DIFFICULT TO IMPLEMENT AND MAY CAUSE PROBLEMS

SLIDE SHOWS

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OF THE HOOK

New Slide Show

JUNE 2025 GALLERY

Different Presentation

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THE WAY FINDER

The Wayfinder is your visual compass through a vast world of images. Use this global menu to navigate my collection and chart your own course of discovery

CITY VISIT

WATERFORD

Every August, local and international artists descend on the city to transform its urban landscape with vibrant and imaginative murals.

CITY VISIT

LIMERICK

Historically, Limerick has a rich past dating back to its founding by Vikings in 812. This history is visible in its medieval architecture, most notably at King John's Castle, a formidable 13th-century fortress.

CITY VISIT

BELFAST

Historically, Belfast was a global leader in shipbuilding and linen production, earning the nickname "Linenopolis." Its most famous maritime legacy is the RMS Titanic,

WATERFORD WALLS

DON’T LOOK UP

The highlight of the festival was Rooble's mural, "Don't Look Up", a powerful piece that now stands as a permanent fixture in Waterford's extensive collection of large-scale artworks. This work is a defining statement, as it's the only mural he has produced for the Waterford Walls festival. By examining the confluence of his personal philosophy and the sociopolitical message of the mural, a deeper appreciation for its context and impact can be achieved.

SNAP SHOT 2017

A major political event was the election of Leo Varadkar as the new Taoiseach (prime minister) in June, succeeding Enda Kenny. At 38 years old, Varadkar became the youngest Taoiseach in the state's history and the first openly gay one.

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SNAP SHOT 2009

Bailouts and Nationalization: The government's response to the banking crisis of 2008 continued in 2009. The state nationalized Anglo Irish Bank in January 2009, having determined that recapitalization alone would not save it.

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BELFAST STREET ART

While Belfast is renowned for its political murals, the city's street art scene has evolved far beyond them, encompassing a diverse range of artistic expressions

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WATERFORD WALLS

THE SAME BUT DIFFERENT

Zabou is a French street artist who now calls London home. She's a master of large-scale, realistic murals, and her style is instantly recognisable. Her work features striking, black-and-white portraits that seem to pop right off the wall, often set against vibrant, colourful backdrops.

Her journey into street art began after she moved to the UK for her studies. London’s thriving street art scene, especially in areas like Brixton and Shoreditch, inspired her to pick up a spray can herself. What started as a personal passion soon blossomed into a global career. Today, Zabou has created over 250 murals in more than 23 countries, leaving her mark all across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

THE PLAN

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SOFTWARE

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COLLECTIONS

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LEGACY SITES

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LEGACY SITES

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GALLERIES

PHOTOS AND INFO

THE TOWN OF TRIM

According to legend, St. Patrick founded a church in Trim, leaving it in the care of his nephew, St. Loman. This early monastic settlement laid the groundwork for the town's development.

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SNAP SHOT 2008

The Onset of Recession: 2008 was a particularly challenging year for the Irish economy. The country officially entered a recession, becoming the first eurozone state to do so. This was largely due to the collapse of an uncontrolled real estate bubble that had been developing for years, and the subsequent implosion of the domestic financial system

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SNAP SHOT 2009

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