Smithfield Square to be transformed with quirky art installations

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Fáilte Ireland today announced a brand new Urban Animation Investment Scheme which will see Smithfield Square, along with other locations around the country, transformed with public art, light installations and performance spaces.

The pilot €5 million Urban Animation Capital Investment Scheme is set to celebrate the stories, culture, history and heritage of the various locations, with Smithfield Square getting a carousel, an outdoor gallery (including media screens to promote upcoming cultural events), an outdoor performance space and a multi-functional indoor space which can be used by creative organisations in the city.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Alison Gilliland, spoke as part of the scheme’s announcement in Smithfield today.

She revealed: “I am delighted that Fáilte Ireland will be supporting Dublin City Council’s plans for urban animation in Smithfield. I’ve seen the plans and they look amazing. Smithfield is a key public space on the Northside of the city.”

She added, “This funding will allow us to create a more playful, family friendly atmosphere in this space. The plans include colourful animals, shapes and a fully functioning carousel which will be visually beautiful and exciting to interact with.”

Meanwhile, Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport, Gaeltacht and Media, Catherine Martin said, “The projects allocated funding through Fáilte Ireland’s Urban Animation Capital Investment Scheme will help re-invigorate these urban areas and increase their tourism appeal.

“This is important in attracting visitors to our towns and cities and increasing dwell time to support local tourism and hospitality businesses and jobs. It is also important to note that these projects will be sustainable and in line with environmental best practice. This funding announcement further strengthens this Government’s commitment to developing the regions as outlined in the ‘Our Rural Future’ plan.”

Orla Carroll, Director of Product Development at Fáilte Ireland added, “Urban animation will play an increasingly important role in transforming and re-imagining our public spaces as safe, welcoming and vibrant places to visit.”

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