Bob Dixon
Planet Glasnevin
This collection of images was taken with a DJI Mavic Air drone trying to capture the 124-acre span of the iconic Glasnevin cemetery which is the resting place for 1.5 million people all in one image. Some of these are panoramic style allowing a “little planet” which gives a fuller feel to the area with the 168 feet tower of Daniel O’Connell being the centre piece. There is an additional 3 images on the back of this image. O’Connell circle is shown from above which is where he was originally buried in this garden cemeteries that had become widespread throughout Europe in the nineteenth century, following the example of Père Lachaise in Paris. Such legendary people buried in its walls are Charles Stewart Parnell, Michael Collins, James Larkin, Brendan Behan, Christy Brown, Luke Kelly and my nan Mary McCrum. A space that holds the history of Ireland. The city of the dead has always been a draw to document and spend time in. Sometimes to find art, sometimes to walk with friends and sometimes to visit family interned there. Tending a grave is a tradition close to the Irish, like grooming the hair of the deceased. This area is adjoined to the beautiful Prospect Square which is where this instillation is situated and BoB would like to thank Prospect ACA (especially his good friend Alfreda O’Brien) for the opportunity to showcase this art of their neighbours and look forward to more in the future. Next door to the entrance to the cemetery a pub was opened in 1833 (now Kavanagh's, Nos. 1 & 2 Prospect Square) which served drink to the men who dug the graves in the cemetery, which is why it is commonly known as the 'Gravediggers'. Lore has it that they would knock on the wall of the pub with a special code to order their drinks, a place he calls his local. This image along with the other images are available for sale at bespoke sizes and framing options, drop me a mail for details. Thanks to all at Culture Night 2023 and I want to dedicate this instillation to the memory of my friend and father-in-law Terry O’Mahony who passed away recently.
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