Mural makeovers for traffic light control boxes across local communities
By Mary Dennehy
IT’S THAT time of the year again when traffic light control boxes right across the capital receive a makeover, with plenty of colourful inspiration in South Dublin communities.
Joy on the Nangor Road by Indian illustrator and designer Ashwin Chacko
Dublin Canvas has been bringing flashes of colour to the capital since the summer of 2015, with a new series of artworks popping up in recent weeks.
By the end of Autum 2020, more than 500 public art pieces will be completed.
Bí Cineálta (Be Kind) by Suzanne Uí Dhúnaigh in Woodford, Clondalkin
According to Dublin Canvas: “Completed artwork brightens up and turns these once dull, heavily tagged boxes into beautiful works of art, transforming Dublin into a walking gallery of public art.”
Dublin Canvas artworks are also a colourful nod to a locality’s individual traits, with many of the pieces holding local significance – like Ciaran Curley’s artwork at the junction of Old Bawn Road and Kilininny Road in Tallaght.
“The area sits nicely on the foot of the Dublin and Wicklow mountains”, Ciaran said.
Bear Necessities by Ciaran Curley
“There are a lot of young families moving into new homes, we are also relatively new to the area and had our first child during lockdown.
“With much sadness around during the current pandemic, I believe many people have learned to appreciate what is really important, such as family and nature.
“I wanted to depict a bright, positive, optimistic scene, of a family venturing into the overlooking mountains, getting back to nature, and happy together.”
Ballyfermot The Gala by Teresa Howes
Over in Ballyfermot, homage is made to the ever-changing Gala building, which has been an important landmark locally – with the words ‘Meet me at the Gala’ written on the top of the traffic light control box on Ballyfermot Road.
Speaking about her colourful tribute to the Gala and local life, artist Teresa Howes said: “This piece depicts the ever-changing Gala building that was built in Ballyfermot in the forties, opening its doors as the Gala Cinema in 1955.
“The building shell remains, but the facade and purpose have varied considerably over the years, resting today as a Home Savers.
“I wanted to bring everyone’s mind back to when the Gala was the place to be, and to all the memories and fondness people reserve for it to this day.”
Citywest Drive Back to Nature by Eva Kelly
Illustrator Eva Kelly designed and painted Back to Nature outside Scoil Aoife Community National School on Citywest Drive.
“It is a reminder to change the focus onto nature and the restorative qualities it offers”, Eva said.
“This idea of natura and wellness is situated aptly on a busy place across from a primary school.
“The intention is to add some natural beauty to the location to be enjoyed by all.”
Let Love Lead by Onyedikachi Onwusor located between Fettercairn Crescent and Jobstown
For further information on Dublin Canvas follow the project on Facebook HERE or visit Dublin Canvas website HERE
(All above images courtesy of Dublin Canvas)
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