Over six weeks the group worked together to plan, design, cut and create the mural, and along the way, there were trips to the Chester Beatty and National Archives too.

The finished mural represents the indomitable community spirit of Kilbarrack and features many instantly recognisable references to Roddy Doyle’s Barrystown Trilogy, which was filmed in the local area. Bimbo’s van and the pruning shears from The Snapper can be seen alongside the slogan ‘Today’s Youth Matters’.

On the 10th July 2019, Kilbarrack’s own Roddy Doyle was on hand to witness the unveiling of the 30 foot mural in its new home at Kilbarrack DART station, where it continues to brighten up the commute for the people of Dublin.

About Kilbarrack Coast Community Programme (KCCP)

Kilbarrack Coast Community Programme (KCCP) evolved as a result of locals wishing to stop the sale of heroin in the area in the 1990’s. Local community activists lobbied and successfully obtained a drug clinic and community-based aftercare project. Originally called Kilbarrack After Care Community Programme its name was changed in 2001. Since then it has expanded to provide a wide range of services to the local community and currently employs 43 people. In addition to the three structured programmes KCCP also offers free confidential counselling to all the community.

The Reach Out Youth Programme is aimed at the 18 to 25 years age group and targets young people experiencing problems with cannabis and alcohol.

Partners

This project has been made in collaboration with KCCP Reach Out Project and mural artist Solus in partnership with Dublin City Council Libraries, North Central Area Office, the City Arts Office, Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane, Chester Beatty and the National Archives.

Made by Dublin City Council Culture Company in partnership with Dublin City Council (Dublin City Libraries, local area offices, Arts Office, Dublin City Gallery The Hugh Lane) and National Cultural Institutions (Abbey Theatre, Chester Beatty, Irish Museum of Modern Art, National Archives, National Concert Hall, National Gallery of Ireland, National Library of Ireland, the National Museum of Ireland).