“Ever-changing and evocative” is how Dublin’s street art is often described. Today we will explore the Hip Hip & Away Mural. It’s a vibrant piece that captures the city’s spirit.
The Hip Hip & Away Mural is part of Dublin Canvas. Dublin Canvas transforms ordinary traffic light boxes into art. This initiative brings art to the streets. It showcases the talents of Irish and international artists. The Hip Hip & Away Mural is a standout example of this project.
Dublin Canvas is overseen by Dublin’s four councils. Over 750 pieces have been completed. Each year, there is a new call for artwork submissions. This ensures a constantly evolving display of public art. The Hip Hip & Away Mural was created in 2019 by Juliette Viode.
Street art tells the story of a city in vivid color. Murals bring life to walls and gable ends. Irish street artists like Maser and James Earley contribute to this scene. The Hip Hip & Away Mural adds to this collection of art.
Maser is another prolific street artist in Dublin. His work often carries wit and warmth. Maser’s art can be found throughout the city. His “U Are Alive” piece on Grantham Street is a local favorite.
The Aviva Stadium also showcases urban wildlife art. A collaboration between The Walls Project and artists like Holly Pereira created a mural there. This mural spans 160 meters. It is one of the country’s longest urban art projects.
In Dublin 8, a James Joyce quote is immortalized on a gable wall. The quote “they lived and laughed and loved and left” comes from Finnegan’s Wake. Local artists Garreth Joyce and Vanessa Power created the mural.
Blooms Hotel in Temple Bar is another eye-catching landmark. Its exterior features characters from Joyce’s Ulysses. The mural includes Molly and Leopold Bloom, Stephen Dedalus and Buck Mulligan.
Wallis Bird’s portrait can be found on the side of The George pub. Emmalene Blake, a well-known street artist, created it. The mural was painted to mark the release of Bird’s album, “Hands.”
Street art in Dublin faces challenges. Planning permission is required for changes to building facades. This can conflict with the transient nature of street art. Despite these challenges, Dublin’s street art scene continues to flourish.
Initiatives like Dublin Canvas help promote street art. They provide platforms for artists to display their work. The Hip Hip & Away Mural is a testament to this. It adds to the ever-changing and evocative art scene in Dublin.
So, as you stand before the Hip Hip & Away Mural, remember it is more than just a painting. It’s a symbol of Dublin’s vibrant artistic spirit. It showcases the city’s culture and creativity. Take a moment to appreciate the story it tells.