Have you ever considered the universe within a cell? That’s what the “What is Life?” sculpture invites you to do. The sculpture, created by renowned architect Charles Jencks, sits in the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin. It was commissioned to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the discovery of the double helix by James Watson and Francis Crick. “What is Life?” is more than just a sculpture; it is a conversation, a dialogue between the small world of the cell and the vastness of the cosmos. Jencks designed the sculpture to be an interactive experience, encouraging us to engage with scientific concepts through the lens of art. The undulating mound with its pathways and steps is reminiscent of a cell undergoing division, and its lush green grass blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural world. Stone carvings depict DNA strands, chromosomes, and other cellular components, while strategically placed rocks represent planets and stars. The interplay of these elements invites contemplation on the fundamental building blocks of life and the vastness of the universe, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all things.
Saint John the Evangelist
Whispers of history echo from these stones. This is the site of Saint John the Evangelist. Once a vibrant church