Matchstick Men mingle on Railway Street as Balbriggan hosts climate friendly celebration

This Saturday is an occasion to look forward to as Balbriggan celebrates the work of painter LS Lowry with a day of car-free fun.

Taking place during Climate Action Week (16-22 October), this event will offer a climate friendly pedestrian space where people can stroll freely.

Lowry’s famous depiction of Railway Street was sketched in 1970, when the local Smyth & Co Hosiery Factory was a major employer in the locality.

Painted in his typical ‘matchstick men’ style, the image of Railway Street will be familiar to many and now the Scéal Arts Collective, along with Our Balbriggan, Sustainable Fingal, Smart Balbriggan, CARO (Climate Action Regional Office) and Fingal County Council are joining forces to commemorate the work with a very special day of celebrations.

Running from 10am to 5pm there will be a packed programme of events for all the family.

A Lowry inspired art exhibition and art competition will be hosted at the Around A Pound shop while the original sketch will also be on display along with works by local artists.

There will be live music from St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed Band as well as tunes from local outfits Homebrew, Phil and ukelele troop BUSC. Retro fashion will be the name of the day along with sustainable street games from Recreate, food stalls and an exciting living history display of original items from Smyth & Co.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Adrian Henchy, said: “It’s great to see the Lowry event is taking place during Climate Action Week.

“With Railway Street closed to motor traffic for the day both locals and visitors can enjoy the very best of Balbriggan and a car-free climate where everyone can play, stroll and mingle safely.”

Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnneMarie Farrelly said: “It’s wonderful to see a celebration of Lowry’s famous work taking over Railway Street during Climate Action Week.

“Balbriggan is home to a thriving arts and culture scene.

“Fingal County Council recently approved planning permission for a new arts space on Dublin Street as part of the Our Balbriggan regeneration project and the Lark at the Irish Institute of Music and Song is soon to open offering yet another world-class arts space in the County.’

Director of Environment, Climate Action and Active Travel, David Storey, said: “We’re encouraging as many people as possible to come along in their retro best and join in a day of nostalgia, history and fun.

“Lowry is an important figure in the story of Balbriggan and this will be a great opportunity for people to get to know his artwork while also enjoying the freedom of a car-free space with no fumes or congestion.

“Hop on your bike or walk to the event.”