‘Winter Lights’ and new projections light up Dublin city

17 locations across Dublin city centre have been transformed with colourful projections and lighting displays as part of the ‘Winter Light’ installations, with four new locations added since last year.

“It’s heartening to see the Winter Lights back again for a third year, particularly this year when we all need some cheering up,” said the Lord Mayor of Dublin Hazel Chu.

“They will be up for the whole month of December so, Covid restrictions allowing, I would encourage people to come into the city centre at their leisure and take a look.

“While you’re in the city, do what you can to support local businesses too.”

“4 new locations have been added to the list for this year: the Mater Hospital, Capital Dock, The Jeanie Johnston Ship, and CHQ Triumphal Arch,” said Simon Clarke from Dublin City Council’s Events Section.

“Smithfield will also be getting an enhanced display this year featuring photos of frontline workers to thank them for their contribution in helping to keep the city running throughout the pandemic.”

The eco-friendly ‘Winter Lights’ features 157,800 low power LEDs, 100 tonnes of equipment and 15,780 metres of cable.

The lights that power some of the projections consume less than 80% of the energy of their traditional predecessors.

The ship sculpture at Sir John Rogersons Quay is all LED, using less electrical power than a domestic socket.

City Hall is completely LED using a total of 3kw (equivalent of about two dishwashers). Hugh Lane is completely LED using a total of 2kw (equivalent of vacuum cleaner and 50% reduction on 2018).

The Mansion House is completely LED using a total of 2kw (equivalent of vacuum cleaner and reduction of 80% on 2018).

Dublin City Council Culture Company is working with community groups and artists across Dublin as part of this year’s Winter Lights to create 4 brand new artworks.

The groups, made up of community organisations and individuals who have taken part in Culture Company programmes throughout the year, are working with artists to create their own artworks inspired by themes of community, hope, resilience, Christmas’ past and Dublin in winter.

Their heartwarming winter scenes and messages of hope will animate this year’s Winter Lights at Samuel Beckett Bridge, Civic Offices at Wood Quay, City Hall and the Mater Hospital.

This year’s community groups are Croft Nursing Home, Hollybrook Nursing Home, HACE Henrietta Street Adult & Community Education Service (HACE), an over 55s movement group from Richmond Barracks and a group of individuals who met during lock down through The National Neighbourhood, a Culture Company programme.

They are collaborating with artists Steve MacDevitt, Alan Dunne, Helen Barry, Ben Redmond and choreographer Aoife McAtamney.