Whenever I travel, one thing I look forward to is discovering the incredible street art that decorates the city. Graffiti has this magical way of brightening up urban spaces, and I truly believe it’s an art form that adds value to our lives. What makes graffiti stand out is the powerful messages it often carries—offering a voice to political, social, and economic issues. Dublin, with its creative and artistic spirit, is no exception. It’s a city filled with murals that don’t just beautify the streets but also inspire thought and conversation.
Here’s a list of my favorite murals around Dublin, each telling its own meaningful story. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do, and that you’ll consider checking them out on your next visit to this lively city!
Subset collective murals
Subset is a collective of artists, designers, filmmakers, and curators who aim to spark reflections on social issues through their artwork. They envision transforming Dublin — and all of Ireland — into an open-air gallery. Their murals touch on important themes, offering thought-provoking commentary on the world around us.
Climate
One of their standout works is the Climate Project mural, located in the Temple Bar area on Fleet Street’s EBS building. The artwork portrays a fish trapped in a plastic bag, symbolizing the devastating effect of plastic waste on our oceans. This mural highlights the persistence of plastic pollution and its harmful impact on the environment. It’s a powerful piece aimed at raising awareness about climate change, urging us all to think about how we can reduce our plastic footprint.
Mental Health
Another impactful piece by Subset is the Mental Health mural, which encourages viewers to reflect on their relationship with themselves and the importance of personal growth. Featuring an image of the philosopher Epictetus with the words "Don’t worry, be happy," this mural brings attention to the widespread issue of anxiety, reminding us of the importance of mental well-being and finding joy in the little things in life.
CORONAVIRUS: The virus area
Subset’s Virus Era mural is a poignant commentary on the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This work explores the pandemic’s effects in Ireland and offers a deep dive into the nation’s response. It’s a mural that captures the complexity of our times and invites us to consider how we can adapt to the changing world.
Love Lane
In the heart of Temple Bar, Love Lane has been transformed through the Dublin City Council’s “Love the Lanes” initiative. This charming alley is now a colourful spot filled with beautiful street art. The walls are adorned with romantic quotes from movies, local sayings, and loving words from famous authors, creating a peaceful and poetic atmosphere in the middle of the city.
Camden Street
Camden Street, known for its lively pubs, is also home to a vibrant collection of street art. Near The Wheelans Pub, you’ll find the mural U ARE ALIVE by Arches and MASER. This artwork encourages people to embrace the present moment, adding a dose of positivity to the already energetic vibe of Camden Street.
Canbe Hostels
At Canbe Hostels, located on both the north and south sides of Dublin, we’ve added our own splash of colour! The vibrant murals by @m5ifty bring good vibes and joy to our travellers. Whether you’re staying at Garden Lane Backpackers or Gardiner House Hostel, you’ll find art that lifts the spirits and adds to the unique atmosphere of the city.
Take a walk through Dublin’s artistic streets and experience the creativity that’s painted across the city’s walls. Each mural tells a story, adds character, and makes Dublin even more special.
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