In my first blog post I was telling you about how I got into drawing - you can read it here. Thanks...
Finding Inspiration in Dublin: A Journey Back to Drawing
Dublin is a city that dances with vibrancy and colour, a place where every corner is painted with stories waiting to be discovered. It is in this lively hub that I found myself drawn back to my first love—drawing. Despite the demands of everyday life, Dublin's unique blend of history, culture, and youthful energy stirred my creative spirit. It was through exploring the city's iconic locations that I began to see the world through an artist's lens once more. Join me as I recount my journey through some of the most inspiring places in Dublin that reignited my passion for art.
Strolling through St. Stephen's Green is like stepping into a living canvas. The park, nestled in the heart of Dublin, is an oasis of calm amidst the bustling city. Its meticulously manicured gardens and vibrant flower beds offer a feast for the eyes, with hues that shift from the soft pastels of spring to the fiery reds and oranges of autumn. As I walked along its winding paths, I couldn't help but be inspired by the way the light danced through the leaves, casting intricate patterns on the ground. It was here, on a sun-dappled bench, that I first felt the urge to sketch the scene before me, capturing the essence of nature's ever-changing beauty.
Venturing further into Dublin, I found myself in Ballsbridge, a neighbourhood that effortlessly blends modernity with tradition. The elegant Georgian architecture, with its stately red-brick houses and ornate doorways, tells tales of Dublin's rich history. As I wandered the streets, I was captivated by the contrast between the timeless buildings and the vibrant energy of the local cafes and boutiques. Ballsbridge became a muse in its own right, inspiring me to experiment with capturing architectural details and the rhythm of city life in my sketches. It was here that I realized drawing is not just about replicating what you see, but about embedding personal stories and emotions into each line on the page.
Temple Bar, with its cobblestone streets and lively atmosphere, reignited my sense of adventure and curiosity. Known for its rich cultural scene, this historic district is a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, and people from all walks of life. Each visit was an opportunity to see Dublin's creative pulse in action, from the street performers who bring music and laughter to the throngs of visitors, to the vibrant murals that adorn the walls, telling tales of old and new. Inspired by this artistic tapestry, I started incorporating more colour and movement into my drawings, capturing the essence of Dublin's cultural heartbeat.
During the week, I spent my days at Wilton Plaza, where my professional life unfolded. The modern office environment, with its sleek design and bustling atmosphere, was a stark contrast to the historic charm of the city. Yet, even in this corporate setting, Dublin's vibrancy seeped in, thanks to the panoramic views of the cityscape that stretched out before me. As I gazed out the window, I often found myself daydreaming about how the lines of the buildings intersected with the sky, or how the shadows played across the streets below. These reflections helped me see the beauty in everyday scenes, encouraging me to pick up my pencil and draw during lunch breaks or on my ride home.
The journey back to my home on Aungier Street was often the highlight of my day. As I navigated the city streets, I took in the hustle and bustle of life in Dublin. The colourful storefronts, the laughter spilling out from pubs, and the gentle hum of conversation were all part of the symphony of city living. This daily commute became a cherished time for reflection and observation, allowing me to appreciate the small details that make Dublin so unique. Inspired by the city's energy, I began to see my surroundings as a series of interconnected sketches, each telling its own story.
In closing, Dublin's vibrant spirit, with its tapestry of cultures, colours, and characters, kindled my creativity and brought me back to the simple joy of drawing. The city's unique blend of tradition and modernity, nature and urban life, offered endless inspiration. Each location, from the serene beauty of St. Stephen's Green to the lively streets of Temple Bar, played a pivotal role in rekindling my passion for art. While drawing may not be an essential part of everyone's life, the act of capturing the world around me has enriched my experiences and added a new dimension to living in this dynamic city.
Do you also have a place like this, where you get inspired and just feel like creating?
Where do you feel the most artsy?
