List of public art in Dublin facts for kids
This article lists the public art you can see on display around Dublin, Ireland. This means sculptures, statues, monuments, memorials, murals, and mosaics that are out in the open for everyone to enjoy. It doesn't include art kept inside museums.
Dublin's public art is a big part of what makes the city special. Over the years, some of these statues and monuments have caused a bit of a stir because of who or what they represent, or how they look. Some famous ones have even been taken down or destroyed! Many of Dublin's monuments also have fun nicknames, even if not everyone uses them.
Contents
North City Centre Art
O'Connell Street's Famous Art
- Daniel O'Connell Statue: This statue of Daniel O'Connell, a famous Irish leader, stands proudly on O'Connell Street. It was created by John Henry Foley in 1882.
- William Smith O'Brien Statue: You can find the statue of William Smith O'Brien, another important figure in Irish history, on O'Connell Street. It was made by Thomas Farrell in 1870. It used to be on D'Olier Street before moving here in 1929.
- Sir John Gray Statue: Sir John Gray's statue, also by Thomas Farrell, was put up in 1879 on O'Connell Street.
- James Larkin Statue: This statue of James Larkin, a well-known trade union leader, stands on O'Connell Street. It was sculpted by Oisín Kelly in 1980.
- Spire of Dublin: The tall, needle-like Spire of Dublin is a very modern landmark on O'Connell Street. It was designed by Ian Ritchie Architects and finished in 2003.
- Cú Chulainn Statue: Inside the GPO on O'Connell Street, you'll find the statue of Cú Chulainn, a legendary Irish hero. Oliver Sheppard created it in 1911, and it was placed in the GPO in 1935.
- Father Theobald Mathew Statue: This statue of Father Theobald Mathew, who promoted temperance (avoiding alcohol), is on O'Connell Street. It was made by Mary Redmond in 1893. It was moved for the Luas tram extension in 2014 and then returned to a new spot near The Spire in 2018.
- Charles Stewart Parnell Memorial: A memorial to Charles Stewart Parnell, a significant political leader, stands on O'Connell Street. It was created by Augustus Saint-Gaudens in 1911.
- Cathal Brugha Plaque: A plaque honoring Cathal Brugha, an Irish revolutionary, is located on O'Connell Street.
- Mr. Screen: This statue, also known as Mr. Screen, is in the lobby of the Savoy Cinema on O'Connell Street. Vincent Browne made it in 1988. It used to be outside the Screen Cinema on Hawkins Street.
- Paweł Strzelecki Memorial Plaque: You can find a memorial plaque for Paweł Strzelecki, a Polish explorer, on Sackville Place. It was placed there in 2015.
Art Along the North Quays
- Famine Memorial: This powerful memorial to the Great Famine is located on Custom House Quay. Rowan Gillespie created it in 1997.
- World Poverty Stone: Also on Custom House Quay, the World Poverty Stone marks the UN International Day for the Eradication of World Poverty. Stuart McGrath made it in 2008.
- Father Pat Noise Memorial: This unusual memorial to Father Pat Noise is on O'Connell Bridge. Its artist is unknown, and it was put up in 2004.
- Meeting Place: On Lower Liffey Street, you'll find "Meeting Place" by Jackie McKenna, created in 1988. It's often called "The Hags with the Bags."
- Anna Livia: This monument, representing the River Liffey, is in Croppies Acre Memorial Park on Wolfe Tone Quay. Éamonn O'Doherty made it in 1988. It was first on O'Connell Street and moved here in 2011. People sometimes call it "The Floozie in the Jacuzzi."
- 1798 Rebellion Memorial: A memorial to the 1798 Rebellion is in Croppies Acre Memorial Park. It was created in 1998.
- Flow: Located on North Wall, Dublin in front of Dublin Landings, "Flow" by Martin Richman (2008) reminds us of the shipping containers that used to be common here.
- Triumphal Arch: Near the River Liffey at George's Dock, this rusticated limestone arch was built in 1813. It was moved to its current spot in 1998. A plaque says it was rededicated to Pat O'Shea for his community work in 2002. It's thought to have celebrated Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Salamanca.
Art in the North East City
This area is bordered by O'Connell Street, Parnell Square East, North Frederick Street, and Lower Dorset Street to the west. To the north, it's near the Royal Canal, and to the south, the Liffey Quays. The North Wall is to the east.
- James Joyce Statue: On North Earl Street, you'll see a statue of the famous writer James Joyce. Marjorie Fitzgibbon created it in 1990. It's sometimes called "The Prick with the Stick."
- Dublin Martyrs: This sculpture by Conall McCabe (2001) on Cathedral Street honors Margaret Ball and Francis Taylor, who were martyrs.
- The Three Graces: Located at the DIT School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology on Cathal Brugha Street, these sculptures represent The Three Graces. Gabriel Hayes made them in 1941.
- The Wishing Hand: You can find "The Wishing Hand" by Linda Brunker (2001) on Marlborough Street.
- Talking Heads: On Abbey Street, "Talking Heads" by Carolyn Mulholland was created in 1990.
- Chariot of Life: This sculpture, also known as Chariot of Life, is at the Irish Life Centre on Abbey Street. Oisín Kelly made it in 1982.
- James Connolly Statue: A statue of James Connolly, an Irish socialist leader, stands on Beresford Place. Éamonn O'Doherty created it in 1996.
- Universal Links on Human Rights: On Amiens Street, this artwork by Tony O'Malley (1995) represents jails holding prisoners of conscience.
- Battle of the Custom House Memorial: This memorial to the Battle of the Custom House is on Memorial Road. Yann Goulet made it in 1957.
- Scáthán: Located at Busáras on Store Street, "Scáthán" was created by Robert McColgan in 2007.
- Luke Kelly Statue: A statue of the musician Luke Kelly is on Sheriff Street. Vera Klute made it in 2019.
- NC Iris: In Mayor Square, IFSC, Dublin Docklands, "NC Iris" was commissioned by the National College of Ireland in 2006. Vivienne Roche is the artist.
- Strong Striking Bear of Great Deeds: This bear sculpture by Don Cronin (1999) is outside IFSC House. It's part of a pair with a bull sculpture inside.
- Bull Sculpture: Also by Don Cronin (1999), this bull sculpture is inside IFSC House, completing the "Bear and Bull" pair.
- Dublin and Monaghan Bombings Memorial (Talbot Street): A memorial for the victims of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings is on Talbot Street. It was put up in 1997.
- Dublin and Monaghan Bombings Memorial (Parnell Street): Another memorial for the bombings is on Parnell Street, created in 2008.
- Summerhill Group: On Summerhill, this bronze artwork by Cathy Carman (1991) shows children playing, recalling the street's history.
- Beds: You can see "Beds" by Fred Conlon (1993) on Portland Row.
- Home: This sculpture by Leo Higgins (2000) is on Buckingham Street.
- The Five Lamps: Also known as the General Henry Hall Memorial, this landmark with five lamps is at Amiens Street/North Strand. It dates back to around 1880.
- North Strand Bombing Memorial: A memorial to the North Strand Bombing is on North Strand Road, created in 1991.
- Sundial (Mountjoy Square): A sundial is located in Mountjoy Square. It was made in 1988 and has "Tempus" inscribed on it.
- Mosaic Tile and Concrete Tree: There are two of these mosaic trees in the center of Mountjoy Square, created by the nearby Pavee Point centre.
- Drop: In the Maritime Sculpture Garden at Dublin Port, "Drop" by Eimear Murphy was created in 2017.
- The Mariner: Also in the Maritime Sculpture Garden, "The Mariner" by John Behan (1975) is made from scrap metal.
- Hexagon: This weathered steel sculpture by Steven Doody (2014) is in the North Strand Bombing Memorial Garden.
- Stone Plaques (Spencer Dock): Two carved limestone plaques on the Royal Canal lifting bridge commemorate the opening of Spencer Dock on April 15, 1873.
- Matt Talbot Memorial: A metal plaque and cross on the ground at Matt Talbot Court, Seán O'Casey Avenue, commemorate Matt Talbot. It was placed in August 1971.
Art in the North West City
This area is bordered to the east by O'Connell Street, Parnell Square East, North Frederick Street, and Lower Dorset Street. To the north and west, it's near the North Circular Road, and to the south, the Liffey Quays.
- Ag Crú na Gréine: This sculpture, meaning "Enjoying the sun," is in Wolfe Tone Square, Jervis Street. Jackie McKenna made it in 2003.
- Easter Rising Memorial: A memorial to the Easter Rising is located at Arbour Hill Cemetery.
- The Healing Hands: At the Mater Plot/Berkeley Road, "The Healing Hands" by Tony O'Malley was created in 2000.
- Four Masters Memorial: Also at Mater Plot/Berkeley Road, this memorial by James Cahill (1876) honors the Four Masters.
- Children of Lir Sculpture: In the Garden of Remembrance on Parnell Square, you'll find the Children of Lir sculpture by Oisín Kelly, created in 1966.
- Irish Volunteers Memorial: A memorial to the Irish Volunteers is on Parnell Square East. Werner Schurmann made it in 1960.
- Suzanne Walking in Leather Skirt: On Parnell Square North, this animated LED display by Julian Opie (2006) is outside the Hugh Lane Gallery.
- Let's Dance: This memorial to the Miami Showband killings is on Parnell Square North. Redmond Herrity created it in 2007.
- Brendan Behan Statue: A statue of the writer Brendan Behan is by the Royal Canal on Dorset Street. John Coll made it in 2003.
- Peadar Kearney Monument: A monument to Peadar Kearney, who wrote the Irish national anthem, is on Lower Dorset Street.
- The Soldier: This memorial to the War of Independence is in Blessington Street Park. Leo Broe made it in 1939.
- Natural Histories: At the Blessington Street Basin, "Natural Histories" by Austin McQuinn was created in 1994.
- Éire 1798 Memorial: This memorial is in St. Michan's Park and dates back to 1903.
- Our Lady, Queen of Peace: A statue of Our Lady, Queen of Peace is in Broadstone. Its date is unknown, possibly 1954.
- The O'Rahilly Memorial: On O'Rahilly Parade, this memorial to The O'Rahilly was created by Shane Cullen in 2005.
- Demolition Dave: This sculpture at the Smithfield Luas stop celebrates demolition manager Dave Conway. James Gannon made it in 2004.
- Jerome Connor Plaque: A bronze plaque overlooking Phoenix Park on Infirmary Road, Dublin 7, honors Jerome Connor.
- Spiderweb Sculpture: At the corner of Western Way and Mountjoy Street, this iron spiderweb by Kathleen O'Brien (2003) is on the side of 53 Mountjoy Street.
- The Hungry Tree: In King's Inns Park, this London plane tree has slowly grown around a park bench. It's a 20th-century "artwork" by the park staff!
- Dublin's Last Supper: In The Italian Quarter (Bloom Lane), this artwork by John Byrne (2004) shows a modern version of Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting, with Dubliners as the characters.
South City Centre Art
Trinity College's Artworks
- Edmund Burke Statue: This statue of Edmund Burke, a famous philosopher, is at Trinity College. John Henry Foley made it in 1868.
- Oliver Goldsmith Statue: Also at Trinity College, the statue of writer Oliver Goldsmith was created by John Henry Foley in 1864.
- William Lecky Statue: The statue of historian William Lecky at Trinity College was made by Goscombe John in 1904.
- George Salmon Statue: At Trinity College, the statue of mathematician George Salmon was created by John Hughes in 1911.
- Campanile: This bell tower at Trinity College was designed by Charles Lanyon and Thomas Kirk in 1853.
- Sphere Within Sphere: This unique sculpture by Arnaldo Pomodoro (1982) is located at Trinity College.
- Reclining Connected Forms: At Trinity College, you can see "Reclining Connected Forms" by Henry Moore, created in 1969.
- Cactus Provisoire: This sculpture by Alexander Calder (1976) is also at Trinity College.
- The Double Helix: At Trinity College, "The Double Helix" by Brian King was created in 2003.
- Chac Mool: This sculpture by Sebastián (2015) is at Trinity College.
- Apples and Atoms: Representing Nobel Prize winner Ernest Walton, "Apples and Atoms" by Eilis O'Connell (2013) is at Trinity College.
- Countermovement: This artwork by Michael Warren (1985) is located at Trinity College.
St. Stephen's Green's Art
- Fusiliers' Arch: This arch at St Stephen's Green commemorates the Royal Dublin Fusiliers. John Howard Pentland designed it in 1907.
- Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa Statue: A statue of Irish Fenian Jeremiah O'Donovan Rossa is in St Stephen's Green.
- James Joyce Statue: Another statue of James Joyce, this one by Marjorie Fitzgibbon, is in St Stephen's Green. It was made in 1982.
- Lord Ardilaun Statue: The statue of Lord Ardilaun, a member of the Guinness family, is in St Stephen's Green. Thomas Farrell created it in 1891.
- Fianna Éireann Memorial: A memorial to Fianna Éireann, a youth organization, is in St Stephen's Green. It was put up in 1966.
- Robert Emmet Statue: This statue of Irish nationalist Robert Emmet is in St Stephen's Green. The original was made by Jerome Connor in 1916.
- Tom Kettle Memorial: A memorial to Tom Kettle, an Irish politician and poet, is in St Stephen's Green. The bust was made in 1919, and the memorial in 1927 by Albert G. Power.
- Constance Markievicz Bust: A bust of Constance Markievicz, a revolutionary and politician, is in St Stephen's Green.
- Three Fates: These sculptures by Joseph Wackerle (1956) are in St Stephen's Green.
- Lady Laura Grattan Font: This font is located on St Stephen's Green North and dates back to 1880.
- James Clarence Mangan Statue: A statue of poet James Clarence Mangan is in St Stephen's Green. Oliver Sheppard made it in 1909.
- Standing Figure: Knife Edge: This sculpture, which also serves as a memorial to W. B. Yeats, is in St Stephen's Green. Henry Moore created it in 1961.
- Rabindranath Tagore Bust: A bust of the Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore is in St Stephen's Green. It was placed there in 2011.
- Rose Bowl: This sculpture by Sandra Bell (2006) is in St Stephen's Green.
- Wolfe Tone Statue: A statue of Irish patriot Wolfe Tone is in St Stephen's Green. Edward Delaney made it in 1967.
- Great Famine Monument: This monument to the Great Famine is in St Stephen's Green. Edward Delaney also created it in 1967.
- Anna and Thomas Haslam Memorial: A memorial to social reformers Anna and Thomas Haslam is in St Stephen's Green. It was put up in 1923.
- Louie Bennett and Helen Chenevix Memorial: This memorial to trade unionists Louie Bennett and Helen Chenevix is in St Stephen's Green. It dates from 1958.
- Egyptian and Nubian Noblewomen: Four statues of Egyptian and Nubian noblewomen by Mathurin Moreau (1867) are outside the Shelbourne Hotel on St Stephen's Green.
Merrion Square Park's Art
- Oscar Wilde Memorial Sculpture: This famous sculpture of writer Oscar Wilde is in Merrion Square Park. Danny Osborne created it in 1997.
- Constance Lloyd Sculpture: A companion piece to the Oscar Wilde Memorial, this sculpture of his wife, Constance Lloyd, is also in Merrion Square Park. Danny Osborne made it in 1997.
- Dionysus Sculpture: Another companion piece to the Oscar Wilde Memorial, this sculpture of the Greek god Dionysus is in Merrion Square Park. Danny Osborne also created it in 1997.
- Michael Collins Statue: A statue of Irish revolutionary Michael Collins is in Merrion Square Park. Dick Joynt made it in 1990.
- Joker's Chair: This memorial to comedian Dermot Morgan is in Merrion Square Park. Catherine Greene created it in 2002.
- Éire Sculpture: The Éire sculpture by Jerome Connor (1974) is in Merrion Square Park.
- Bernardo O'Higgins Bust: A bust of Bernardo O'Higgins, a Chilean independence leader, is in Merrion Square Park. Francisco Orellano Pavez made it in 1995.
- Henry Grattan Statue: A statue of Henry Grattan, an Irish politician, is in Merrion Square Park. Peter Grant made it in 1982.
- The Victims: This sculpture by Andrew O'Connor (1976) is in Merrion Square Park.
- National Memorial to Defence Forces: This memorial to members of the Defence Forces who died in service is in Merrion Square Park. Brian King created it in 2008.
- Mother and Child: This sculpture by Patrick Roe (1985) is in Merrion Square Park.
- Tribute Head II: "Tribute Head II" by Elisabeth Frink (1983) is in Merrion Square Park.
- George William Russell (Æ) Statue: A statue of writer George William Russell (Æ) is in Merrion Square Park. Jerome Connor made it in 1985.
- Rutland Fountain: This fountain in Merrion Square Park dates back to 1792 and was made by Francis Sandys.
Iveagh Gardens' Art
- John McCormack Statue: A statue of the famous tenor John McCormack is in Iveagh Gardens. Elizabeth O'Kane created it in 2008.
- Neptune Statues: Two broken statues of Neptune, the Roman god of fresh water, are in Iveagh Gardens. They date from 1865.
- Headless Classical Statue: A headless classical statue, likely a Roman goddess, is in Iveagh Gardens. It also dates from 1865.
- Classical Female Figure: Another classical statue of a female figure, missing half an arm, is in Iveagh Gardens. It's likely a Roman goddess and dates from 1865.
- Fountains: Two fountains designed by Ninian Niven (1865) are in Iveagh Gardens.
- Sundial (Iveagh Gardens): A sundial is at the center of an ornamental hedgerow maze in Iveagh Gardens.
Art Along the South Quays
- Matt Talbot Statue: A statue of Matt Talbot, known for his religious devotion, is on City Quay. James Power made it in 1988.
- Irish Merchant Navy Memorial: This memorial is in Elizabeth O'Farrell Park on City Quay and dates from 1990.
- Admiral William Brown Statue: A statue of Admiral William Brown is on Sir John Rogerson's Quay. It was put up in 2006.
- Gaswork: On Sir John Rogerson's Quay, "Gaswork" by John Kindness (2012) celebrates Dublin's gas history.
- The Linesman: This sculpture by Dony MacManus (1999) is on City Quay.
- Patrick Sheahan Memorial: The Patrick Sheahan Memorial by W.P. O'Neill (1906) is on Hawkins Street.
- People's Island: This artwork by Rachel Joynt (1988) is on the traffic island at the junction of D'Olier Street and Westmoreland Street.
- Sunlight Chambers: This building on Essex Quay features art by Edward Ould from 1902.
- Wood Quay: The "Wood Quay" sculpture by Michael Warren (2002) is at Wood Quay.
- Viking Boat: On Essex Quay, this "Viking Boat" by Betty Newman was created in 1988.
Art in the South East City
This area is bordered to the west by Westmoreland Street, Trinity College, Grafton Street, St. Stephen's Green West, and Harcourt Street. To the north, it's near the Liffey Quays, and to the south, the Grand Canal. To the east, it includes Irishtown and Ringsend.
- Thomas Moore Statue: A statue of poet Thomas Moore is on College Street. Christopher Moore made it in 1857.
- Long Stone Replica: This replica on College Street by Cliodhna Cussen (1986) replaces the original "Long Stone" (Ivar the Boneless' Pillar), which was there from the 10th or 11th century.
- Constance Markievicz and Poppet: This sculpture on Townsend Street by Elizabeth McLaughlin (1998) shows Constance Markievicz with her cocker spaniel dog, Poppet.
- Harmony: In Pearse Square, Pearse Street, "Harmony" by Sandra Bell was created in 1998.
- Units of Potential: On Pearse Street, "Units of Potential" by Alice Rekab was created in 2011.
- Táin Mosaic: This mosaic by Desmond Kinney (1974) is on Nassau Street.
- William Plunket Statue: A statue of William Plunket is on Kildare Street. Hamo Thornycroft made it in 1901.
- Leinster Lawn Cenotaph: This memorial on Leinster Lawn, Leinster House, honors Arthur Griffith, Michael Collins, and Kevin O'Higgins. Raymond McGrath designed it in 1950, replacing an earlier temporary structure.
- Constance Markievicz Bust (Leinster House): A bust of Constance Markievicz is at Leinster House, dating from the 1930s by Leo Broe.
- Industry and Fame: These sculptures by John Hughes (1908) are at Leinster House. They were originally part of the Queen Victoria statue.
- Prince Albert Statue: A statue of Prince Albert is on Leinster Lawn, Leinster House. John Henry Foley made it in 1868.
- Thomas Heazle Parke Statue: A statue of Thomas Heazle Parke is at the Natural History Museum on Merrion Street.
- William Dargan Statue: A statue of William Dargan is at the National Gallery on Merrion Street. It was made in 1853.
- The Kiss: On Earlsfort Terrace, "The Kiss" by Rowan Gillespie was created in 1989.
- Lean: This sculpture by Caoimhe Kilfeather (2017) is on Earlsfort Terrace.
- An SpéirBhean: Also called Sky Woman or Heavenly Woman, this sculpture by Robin Buick (1990) is on Windsor Place, Pembroke Street.
- Reflections: At Miesian Plaza on Baggot Street Lower, "Reflections" by Michael Bulfin was created in 1978.
- Red Cardinal: Also at Miesian Plaza, "Red Cardinal" by John Burke was created in 1978.
- Catherine McAuley Statue: A statue of Catherine McAuley, founder of the Sisters of Mercy, is on Baggot Street Lower. Michael Burke made it in 1994.
- Somewhere between Andromeda and Vulpecula: Sky Atlas: This sculpture by Isabel Nolan (2014) is on Percy Place, off Haddington Road.
- Birdy: On Upper Mount Street, "Birdy" by Rowan Gillespie was created in 1997.
- Memories of Mount Street: This artwork by Derek A. Fitzsimons (1988) is on Upper Mount Street.
- Brian Friel and John B. Keane Sculpture: This sculpture of writers Brian Friel and John B. Keane by Neil C. Breen (1994) is on Upper Mount Street. It was moved outside around 2017.
- Easter Rising Memorial (Mount Street Bridge): A memorial to the Easter Rising is at Mount Street Bridge.
- Carnac: This granite abstract sculpture by Bob Mulcahy (1979) is on a traffic island on Upper Leeson Street.
- Patrick Kavanagh Statue: A statue of poet Patrick Kavanagh is by the Grand Canal. John Coll made it in 1991.
- Overflow: On Grand Canal Street, "Overflow" by Linda Brunker was created in 1997.
- Grand Canal Square: The design for Grand Canal Square by Martha Schwartz (2008) is at Grand Canal Dock.
- Dodder Buoy: A buoy artwork is located at Grand Canal Dock.
- More Equal: At Grand Canal Plaza, "More Equal" by Eilis O'Connell was created in 1999.
- Queen Maedbh Statue: A statue of Queen Maedbh by Patrick O'Reilly (2004) is on Burlington Road.
- Barge Horse: This bronze sculpture by Maurice Harron (1999) is on Herbert Place.
- An Gallán Gréine: Meaning "Sun Stone," this artwork by Clíodna Cussen (1983) is in Sean Moore Park, Irishtown.
- Irish Mercantile Marine World War II Memorial: This memorial is in Irishtown and dates from 1984.
- William Ashford Memorial: A memorial to William Ashford is in Irishtown, dating from 1893.
- James Joyce (Merrion Hotel): A 2-meter high bronze statue by Rowan Gillespie, titled "Ripples of Ulysses," is in the grounds of the Merrion Hotel.
Art in the South West City
This area is bordered to the east by Westmoreland Street, Trinity College, Grafton Street, St. Stephen's Green West, and Harcourt Street. To the north, it's near the Liffey Quays, and to the south, the Grand Canal. To the west, it's near the South Circular Road.
- Henry Grattan Statue: A statue of Henry Grattan is on College Green. John Henry Foley made it in 1876.
- Thomas Davis Statue: A statue of Thomas Davis, a Young Irelander, is on College Green. Edward Delaney made it in 1966.
- Four Angels Fountain: This fountain, a secondary piece to the Davis Memorial, is on College Green. Edward Delaney also created it in 1966.
- Crann an Óir: On Central Plaza, Dame Street, "Crann an Óir" by Éamonn O'Doherty was created in 1991.
- Bronze Palm Tree Seat: A bronze palm tree seat is in Temple Bar. Vincent Browne is the artist.
- Love Lane: In Crampton Court, "Love Lane" by Anna Doran (2014) features ceramic tiles with quotes about love.
- Oliver St. John Gogarty and James Joyce Sculpture: A sculpture of Oliver St. John Gogarty and James Joyce is in Temple Bar.
- Sir William Temple Plaque: A plaque for Sir William Temple is on Temple Bar/Temple Lane.
- Molly Malone Statue: The famous statue of Molly Malone by Jeanne Rynhart (1988) is on Suffolk Street. It used to be on Grafton Street.
- Luke Kelly Statue (South King Street): Another statue of Luke Kelly is on South King Street. John Coll made it in 2019.
- Dublin Yeomanry Memorial: This memorial is on St. Andrew Street.
- St Andrew Statue: A statue of St Andrew is on St. Andrew Street, dating from 1803.
- Phil Lynott Statue: A statue of Thin Lizzy's Phil Lynott is on Harry Street. Paul Daly made it in 2005. It's nicknamed "The Ace with the Bass."
- Why Go Bald: This advertising sign for a hair clinic on Dame Lane, off South Great Georges Street, dates from 1962 and was restored in 1999.
- Veronica Guerin Statue: A statue of journalist Veronica Guerin is in Dubhlinn Gardens, Dublin Castle. John Coll made it in 2001.
- Garda Memorial Garden: This memorial garden in Dubhlinn Gardens, Dublin Castle, was created by Anna Dolan in 2010.
- Serpent Water Feature: A serpent water feature by Killian Shurmann (1994) is in Dubhlinn Gardens, Dublin Castle.
- Special Olympics Sculpture: This sculpture by John Behan (2003) is in Dubhlinn Gardens, Dublin Castle, commemorating the Special Olympics.
- Benjamin Guinness Statue: A statue of Benjamin Guinness is at St Patrick's Cathedral. John Henry Foley made it in 1875.
- Millennium Child: This sculpture by John Behan (2000) is on Christchurch Place.
- Tree of Life: In Peace Park at Christ Church Cathedral, "Tree of Life" was created by Leo Higgins and Colm Brennan in 1988.
- John Field Memorial: A memorial to composer John Field is on Golden Lane.
- Liberty Bell: This sculpture by Vivienne Roche (1988) is in St. Patrick's Park.
- The Literary Parade: In St. Patrick's Park, this artwork by Colm Brennan and John Coll (1988) features sculptures of famous Irish writers like Samuel Beckett, James Joyce, and W. B. Yeats.
- Sentinel: On Patrick Street, "Sentinel" by Vivienne Roche was created in 1994.
- The Obelisk Fountain: This fountain on Thomas Street by Francis Sandys dates from 1790.
- Adult and Child Seat: In St. Catherine's Park, Thomas Street, this seat by Jim Flavin (1988) was part of a sculpture symposium.
- Homeless Jesus: This sculpture by Timothy Schmalz is at Christ Church Cathedral.
- Rialto: At Rialto, "Rialto" by Sandra Bell was created in 2000.
Northside Suburbs Art
- Lock Keeper: At the 10th lock of the Royal Canal in Ashtown, "Lock Keeper" was created in 2007.
- Martin Savage Memorial: A memorial to Martin Savage is in Ashtown, dating from 1948.
- Eyes for You: This granite sculpture by Eileen MacDonagh (2018) is in Balgriffin. It's about 3 meters tall and weighs 5 tonnes.
- Michael Cusack Statue: A statue of Michael Cusack, founder of the GAA, is at Croke Park on Jones Road. Paul Ferriter made it in 2011.
- Harry McEntee Memorial: This memorial on St. Margaret's Road honors Harry McEntee, who died during the Irish Civil War.
- Let the Life Flow Through: In Ballygall, "Let the Life Flow Through" by Elizabeth McLaughlin was created in 1996.
- amaptocare: This ongoing art project in Ballymun by Jochen Gerz (2003–2006) involved planting trees sponsored by the public.
- Another Sphere: In Ballymun, "Another Sphere" by Kevin Atherton (2009) consists of two stainless steel hemispheres in Balcurris Park.
- Cathode/Anode: On Main Street, Ballymun, "Cathode/Anode" by Andrew Clancy was created in 2005.
- Misneach: This sculpture by John Byrne (2010) is at Trinity Comprehensive School, Ballymun.
- Pisces: A fish sculpture called "Pisces" is on Kylemore Road near Lucan Road in Chapelizod.
- Moai Sculpture: On Clontarf Road, this Moai sculpture by Alejandro Pakarati (2004) was a gift from Chile.
- Realt na Mára: Meaning "Mary, Queen of the Sea," this sculpture by Cecil King (1972) is on Bull Wall, Clontarf.
- Windsculpture: At Clontarf Road / Alfie Byrne Road, "Windsculpture" by Éamonn O'Doherty was created in 1988.
- Dancing Couple: This memorial to the Stardust fire by Robin Buick (1993) is in Stardust Memorial Park, Coolock.
- Family Unit 1: In Fairview Park, "Family Unit 1" by Joe Moran was created in 1988.
- Seán Russell Statue: A bronze statue of Seán Russell is in Fairview Park. Willie Malone made it in 2009, replacing an original stone statue from 1951.
- Flags of the 1916 Rising: These flags are displayed in Finglas, dating from 2016.
- Liam Mellows Memorial: A memorial to Liam Mellows is in Finglas, dating from 2019.
- The Nethercross: This ancient cross in St. Canice's graveyard, Finglas, dates from the 9th century and has been in its current spot since 1806.
- Niche: On Finglas Road, "Niche" by Orla de Brí was created in 2007.
- The Spirit of Finglas: In Finglas village center, "The Spirit of Finglas" by Leo Higgins was created in 1991.
- The Bridge: Also known as "Fiacha Dhubha Fhionglaise ar Foluain" (Finglas Ravens Soar), this artwork by Sara Cunnigham-Bell (2021) is in Kildonan Park, Finglas.
- Our Lady Statue: A statue of Our Lady (Virgin Mary) is in Our Lady's Park, Drumcondra. Its date is unknown, possibly 1954.
- Howth Fishermens' Association Memorial: This memorial is in Howth Harbour, dating from 1994.
- Realt na Mára (Howth): Meaning "Star of the Sea," this sculpture by Robert McColgan (2013) is on Howth Fishing Pier.
- River Run: Inside Phibsborough Public Library, Phibsborough, "River Run" is a quote from James Joyce's Finnegans Wake.
- Grass Seed: This sculpture in Saint Anne's Park, Raheny, dates from the early 1970s.
- The Mad Cow: In Saint Anne's Park, "The Mad Cow" by St. John Hennessy was created in 1996.
- Tree of Life (St Anne's Park): This sculpture by Tommy Craggs (2015) in Saint Anne's Park was carved from a dead Monterey cypress tree.
- Phoenix Folly: This folly is in Santry Demesne.
- Temple Folly: Also in Santry Demesne, this temple is a copy of an original folly.
- Luí-na-Gréine: Meaning "Winter Solstice Sunset," this granite marking stone and bench by Cliodhna Cussen (mid-2000s) is on Carrickbrack Road, near Sutton Strand.
- RMS Tayleur Memorial: A memorial to the RMS Tayleur is in Portrane.
- St. Doulagh's Cross: This Early Medieval cross is at St Doulagh's Church, Malahide Road.
- James Hans Hamilton Monument: This obelisk monument to James Hans Hamilton is in Skerries, Dublin, dating from 1870.
- Tidy Towns Sculpture: This sculpture by Shane Holland (2016) in Skerries celebrates the town winning the Tidy Towns competition.
- The Skerries and Loughshinny Sea Pole: This memorial by Shane Holland (2013) in Skerries honors those lost at sea.
- Percy French Bench: A bench honoring Percy French by Bríd Ní Rinn (2008) is in Skerries. The view here inspired his song "The Mountains of Mourne."
- Cormorant Sculpture: This sculpture of a cormorant by Bríd Ní Rinn (2002) is in Skerries.
- Terns Sculpture: Sculptures of terns by Bríd Ní Rinn (2004) are also in Skerries.
Phoenix Park Art
- Wellington Monument: This large obelisk in Phoenix Park honors the Duke of Wellington. Robert Smirke designed it in 1861.
- Phoenix Column: The Phoenix Column in Phoenix Park dates from 1747.
- Papal Cross: This large cross in Phoenix Park marks Pope John Paul II's visit to Ireland in 1979. Paschal Clarke designed it.
- Memorial Cross (Phoenix Park Murders): A memorial cross for the Phoenix Park Murders is in Phoenix Park, dating from 1883.
- Seán Heuston Memorial: A memorial to Seán Heuston, an Irish revolutionary, is in Phoenix Park. Laurence Campbell made it in 1943.
- Plinth of former George Howard Statue: The base of a statue of George Howard remains in Phoenix Park. The statue was blown up in 1958.
Farmleigh Art
- Convergence: This sphere sculpture by Brian King (2004) at Farmleigh celebrates 10 new countries joining the EU.
- Statue in Fountain: A carved Carrara marble fountain with putti figures is at Farmleigh.
- Abstract Sculpture (Tony Cragg): An abstract sculpture by Tony Cragg is at Farmleigh.
- Éan Mór: Meaning "Big Bird," this sculpture by Breon O'Casey is at Farmleigh.
- Remembering: This abstract sculpture by John Wiedman at Farmleigh was inspired by a machine that made milk substitute.
- Hybrid Vigour: This sculpture by James Gannon is at Farmleigh.
Glasnevin Cemetery Art
- O'Connell Tower: This tower is in Glasnevin Cemetery.
- Young Irelanders and Fenians Memorial: A memorial to the Young Irelanders and Fenians is in Glasnevin Cemetery.
- Great War Monument: A monument to the Great War is in Glasnevin Cemetery.
- Easter Rising Necrology Wall: This wall in Glasnevin Cemetery lists those who died in the Easter Rising. It was created in 2016.
- Cross of Sacrifice: The Cross of Sacrifice is in Glasnevin Cemetery, dating from 2014.
- 16th Irish Division Memorial: This memorial is in Glasnevin Cemetery, dating from 2016.
- Great Famine Memorial (Glasnevin): A memorial to the Great Famine is in Glasnevin Cemetery, dating from 2016.
- 1916 Easter Rising Memorial (St Paul's): This memorial is at St Paul's, Glasnevin Cemetery, dating from 2016.
National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin Art
- De Rerum Natura: A plaque for "De Rerum Natura" is at the entrance to the National Botanic Gardens.
- Between Art and Nature: This sculpture by O'Connor (2001) is in the National Botanic Gardens. Its Latin title is 'Inter artes et naturam'.
- Socrates Statue: A statue of the philosopher Socrates is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Sepian Blue: This artwork by Nasser Azam (2007) is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Kingdom of Plants Arising: This sculpture by Michael Quane is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Child and Ball Trough: This artwork is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Craobh: Meaning "Branch," this sculpture by Gerard Cox (1995) is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Sensory Garden Sculpture: A sculpture for the Sensory Garden is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Two Women: This sculpture is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Chinese Lion: A Chinese Lion sculpture is in the National Botanic Gardens.
- Double Helix (Botanic Gardens): This sculpture by Charles Jencks (2013) is in the National Botanic Gardens.
Southside Suburbs Art
- Proclamation Group: This sculpture by Rowan Gillespie (2007) at Kilmainham Gaol shows figures related to the Proclamation of the Irish Republic.
- Cross of Sacrifice (Islandbridge): This cross by Edwin Lutyens (1940) is in the Irish National War Memorial Gardens, Islandbridge.
- Stone of Remembrance: Also by Edwin Lutyens (1940), this stone is in the Irish National War Memorial Gardens.
- Sunken Rose Garden and Granite Bookrooms: These features by Edwin Lutyens (1940) are in the Irish National War Memorial Gardens.
- Domed Temple: This temple by Edwin Lutyens (1940) is in the Irish National War Memorial Gardens.
- Freedom: This sculpture by Alexandra Wejchert is on the Facebook campus on Merrion Road.
- An Cailín Bán: Meaning "The Fair Girl," this sculpture by Sebastián (2002) is on Sandymount Strand.
- W. B. Yeats Bust: A bust of poet W. B. Yeats by Albert Power (1921) is on Sandymount Green.
- Seamus Heaney Bust: A bust of poet Seamus Heaney by Carolyn Mulholland (2016) is on Sandymount Green.
- Wave: This sculpture by Angela Conner (2001) is in Park West.
- Dublin Brigade IRA Memorial: This memorial is in Harold's Cross, dating from 1954.
- Robert Emmet Plaque (Harold's Cross): This plaque on Harold's Cross Road (2003) marks where Robert Emmet was arrested.
- Éamonn Ceannt Monument: A monument to Éamonn Ceannt is in Éamonn Ceannt Park, Harold's Cross, dating from the 1960s.
- Arthur Morrison Monument: This obelisk monument in Donnybrook dates from 1838.
- Who Made The World: This sculpture by Cliodna Cussen is in Ballsbridge.
- Horse (Stallion): A horse sculpture is in the grounds of the Bewleys/Clayton Hotel in Ballsbridge, dating from 1984.
- Bird: This sculpture by Eoin Byrne (1990) is in Herbert Park, Ballsbridge.
- Richard Crosbie Statue: A statue of balloonist Richard Crosbie by Rory Breslin (2008) is in Ranelagh Gardens.
- A Rhinoceros: A rhinoceros sculpture is at Classon's Bridge, Milltown, dating from 2002.
University College Dublin Art
- Noah's Egg: This sculpture by Rachel Joynt (2004) is at the Veterinary building, UCD.
- Judgement: This sculpture by Rowan Gillespie (2013) is outside the Sutherland School of Law, UCD. It was inspired by a philosophical argument about the Iraq war.
- Iphigenia Sculpture: This sculpture by Tom Glendon (1984) is at the Restaurant Building, UCD.
North County Dublin Art
- The Nature Goddess: This sculpture by Richie Clarke (2018) is in Millennium Park, Blanchardstown.
- Inverted Oil Rig: This artwork by Alan Phelan (2012) was in Father Collins Park, Clongriffin, but has been removed for storage.
- Hiroshima Memorial Sculpture: This memorial by Vincent Browne is at Dublin Airport.
- Mother and Child (Dublin Airport): A "Mother and Child" sculpture is at Dublin Airport.
- Spirit of the Air: This sculpture by Richard Enda King (1991) is at the Dublin Airport roundabout.
- Forrest Tavern Memorial: This memorial at Dublin Airport, on the R108, was moved in 2017.
- Thomas Ashe Statue: A statue of Thomas Ashe by Paul D'Arcy (2017) is in Lusk, Dublin.
- M1 Poppies: These five wind-moved, solar-powered poppies by Douglas Mooney (2012) are at the M1 Lissenhall exit to the R126.
- Beehive Huts: These sculptures by Robert McColgan and Irene Benner (2001) are on the Balbriggan bypass, inspired by a beekeeper saint.
- Open Volumes: This sculpture by Mark Ryan (2007) is in Balbriggan.
- The Ammonite: This sculpture by Niall O'Neill (2000) is at Malahide Marina.
- Séamus Ennis Statue: A statue of musician Séamus Ennis is in Naul, Dublin.
- Eccentric Orbit: This sculpture by Rachel Joynt and Remco de Fouw (2002) is on Portmarnock Beach.
- St. Doulagh's Cross: This Early Medieval cross is at St Doulagh's Church, Malahide Road.
- James Hans Hamilton Monument: This obelisk monument to James Hans Hamilton is in Skerries, Dublin, dating from 1870.
- Tidy Towns Sculpture (Skerries): This sculpture by Shane Holland (2016) in Skerries celebrates the town winning the Tidy Towns competition.
- The Skerries and Loughshinny Sea Pole: This memorial by Shane Holland (2013) in Skerries honors those lost to the sea.
- Percy French Bench: A bench honoring Percy French by Bríd Ní Rinn (2008) is in Skerries. The view here inspired his song "The Mountains of Mourne."
- Cormorant Sculpture: This sculpture of a cormorant by Bríd Ní Rinn (2002) is in Skerries.
- Terns Sculpture: Sculptures of terns by Bríd Ní Rinn (2004) are also in Skerries.
South County Dublin Art
- Famine Cross: This stone cross in Ballinascorney dates from around 1850.
- Blackrock Dolmen: This sculpture by Rowan Gillespie (1987) is in Blackrock.
- Blackrock Cross: This cross in Blackrock, dating from the 8th or 9th century, was said to mark the boundary of Dublin city.
- Killiney Hill Obelisk: This obelisk on Killiney Hill was built by John Mapas in 1742.
- Patrick Sarsfield Statue: A statue of Patrick Sarsfield is in Lucan, County Dublin, dating from around 1790.
- The Marker Tree: This artwork by Andreas Kopp (2011) is on the N7, Kingswood interchange.
- Anne Devlin Statue: A life-size bronze statue of Anne Devlin by Clodagh Emoe (2003) is in Rathfarnham. She was a loyal friend of Robert Emmet.
- Breaking Emmet's Block: This artwork by Alice Rekab (2016) in Rathfarnham is inspired by follies and Emmet's Block.
- Love All: This sculpture by Rachel Joynt (2007) is in Templeogue.
- Stillorgan Obelisk: This obelisk in Stillorgan was designed by Edward Lovett Pearce in 1727.
- William Orpen Statue: A statue of artist William Orpen by Rowan Gillespie (2018) is in Stillorgan.
- The Fiddler of Dooney: This sculpture by Imogen Stuart is at Stillorgan Shopping Centre.
- St. Maelruan's Losset: This ancient font in Tallaght was used by pilgrims to wash their feet.
- Cliabhan (Cradle): This sculpture by Linda Brunker (2006) in Tymon Park, Tallaght, commemorates 50 years of adoption in Ireland.
- Unity: This sculpture by Sandra Bell (2021) is in Cherrywood.
Dún Laoghaire Art
- Queen Victoria Fountain: This fountain is in Dún Laoghaire.
- Capt. J. McNeil Boyd Obelisk: This obelisk in Dún Laoghaire Harbour was put up by the Royal St. George Yacht Club.
- George IV Obelisk: This obelisk in Dún Laoghaire dates from 1823.
- Christ the King Statue: This statue by Andrew O'Connor (1978) is in Dún Laoghaire.
- Archer II: This sculpture by Niall O'Neill is in Dún Laoghaire.
- Roger Casement Statue: A statue of Roger Casement by Mark Richards (2021) is in Dún Laoghaire.
- Commemorative Trees Stone: This stone is in People's Park, Dún Laoghaire.
- Mothership: This sculpture by Rachel Joynt (1999) is in Glasthule.
- Thus Daedalus Flew: This sculpture by Niall O'Neill (1986) is on Killiney Hill.
Past Public Art in Dublin
Some public art pieces that once stood proudly in Dublin are no longer there. Here are a few of them:
Image | Title / Subject | Location | Years Displayed | Artist / Designer | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Equestrian Statue of George I | Initially at Essex Bridge, later at the Mansion House | 1722–1755, 1789–1922 | John Nost | This statue was first on Essex Bridge (now Grattan Bridge). It was moved to the Mansion House garden in 1789. In 1922, it was taken down. In 1937, it was sold and is now in Birmingham, England. | |
George II | St Stephen's Green | 1758–1937 | John van Nost the younger | This statue was destroyed by an explosion on May 13, 1937, the day after King George VI's coronation. | |
Archibald Montgomerie | St Stephen's Green | 1866–1958 | Patrick MacDowell | This statue was destroyed by an IRA bomb in August 1958. Two police officers and a civilian were hurt. | |
William of Orange | College Green | 1701–1929 | Grinling Gibbons | It was damaged after an explosion in 1928 and then removed in 1929. It was melted down in 1946. | |
Sir Philip Crampton | College Street | 1862–1959 | John Kirk | This memorial, sometimes called "The Pineapple" or "The Cauliflower," collapsed in 1959 and was removed. A new "Long Stone" sculpture replaced it in 1986. | |
Griffith-Collins Cenotaph | Leinster House, Kildare Street | 1923–1939 | George Atkinson | This memorial became old and was removed in 1939. The current obelisk on Leinster Lawn replaced it in 1950. | |
The Market Cross | Junction of High Street and Skinner's Row (now Christchurch Place) | Early Medieval | Unknown | This cross was first mentioned in 1571. It was taken down in the late 1700s or early 1800s, and its location is now unknown. | |
Queen Victoria | Leinster House, Kildare Street | 1904–1948 | John Hughes | This statue was removed in 1948 as Ireland moved towards becoming a Republic. It is now on display in Sydney, Australia. | |
Nelson's Pillar | O'Connell Street | 1809–1966 | Francis Johnston, William Wilkins, Thomas Kirk | This famous pillar was blown up in 1966, on the 50th anniversary of the 1916 Rising. Nelson's head was saved and is now in the Dublin City Library and Archive. | |
William Blakeney | O'Connell Street | 1759–1782 | John van Nost the younger | This statue was removed before 1782. | |
Bowl of Light | O'Connell Bridge | 1953–1963 | This artwork was put up for the An Tóstal festival. Parts of it were thrown into the Liffey, and the rest was taken down in 1963. | ||
Sir Alexander Macdonnell | Marlborough Street | 1878–1958 | Thomas Farrell | This statue was once in front of Tyrone House. It is now stored at a National Museum facility. | |
Gough Monument | Phoenix Park | 1878–1957 | John Henry Foley | This monument was blown up in 1957. It was later fixed and moved to Chillingham Castle, England, in 1990. | |
William Shakespeare | Riversdale House, Kilmainham | 1725-1969 | Unknown | This statue was part of a house built around 1725. The house later became apartments, and the statue's current location is unknown. | |
George II | Weavers' Hall, The Coombe | 1750-1937 | John van Nost the younger | This statue was taken down because people worried it might be blown up. Its remains are now in the Dublin Civic Museum. | |
Frederick the Great | Prussia Street, Dublin | 1760-? | Patrick Cunningham | This metal bust was put on a house niche when Cabragh Lane was renamed Prussia Street. | |
George Howard | Phoenix Park | 1870–1958 | John Henry Foley | This statue was damaged by a bomb in 1958 and moved to Castle Howard in Yorkshire. Its base remains as a memorial. | |
Millennium Clock | River Liffey | March to August 1996 | |||
The Point Rocket | Point Theatre | 2006–? | |||
Three Bears with Attitude | North Wall Quay (3Arena) | 2009–2017 | Patrick O'Reilly | This sculpture was removed in 2017, and its current location is unknown. | |
Aspiration – Liberty Scaling the Heights | Grand Canal Street | 1995–2020 | Rowan Gillespie | This sculpture was removed in 2020. |