September 15, 2016

Dublin Port has announced the launch of an open call to artists and arts projects to create site-specific works in Dublin Port as part of Port Perspectives; its latest soft values project.

Dublin Port is commissioning a series of original and innovative public artworks and installations, reflecting contemporary art practice. The commissioned artworks will respond specifically to the built environment and local areas in and around Dublin Port, enhancing the public realm to draw audiences and port visitors, while creating a living exhibition and cultural trail. The call for artists will be available at www.businesstoarts.ie/portperspectives.

The inspiration for this project comes from Dublin Port’s increasing interaction with the arts.  In recent years a series of commissioned arts projects have provided an effective and powerful means to tell the story of Dublin Port and are helping torenew the historical link between the Port and the City.  A central objective of Dublin Port’s soft values strategy is rebuilding these links, which have been traditionally forged through long-standing education, cultural, sporting and community initiatives, and now the arts.

Port Perspectives continues Dublin Port’s legacy and builds upon commissions such as Starboard Home, a partnership with the National Concert Hall that went on to feature at this year’s Electric Picnic, Dublin Ships created by Cliona Harmey with Dublin City Council and the restoration of the Diving Bell on Sir John Rogerson’s Quay.

Port Perspectives also includes an exhibition of work by the Belgian artist Eugeen Van Mieghem at Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane in 2017 and an arts engagement programme curated by Professor Declan McGonagle.