A BRILLIANT exhibition of photographs and words at Axis in Ballymun brought back many memories for locals earlier this month.
‘The Mun’ exhibition celebrated the first 50 years of Ballymun and was made up mainly of photos contributed by local residents, both past and present.
Last year marked the 50th anniversary of the first residents moving to Ballymun and it was celebrated with many events including a birthday bash on the Plaza as well as Throwback Thursday and Campervan Sessions.
To round off the year, all those who have lived or worked in Ballymun over its half century were invited to be part of an exhibition showcasing local families, friends and magical memories.
The Mun is a collection of the photographs contributed as well as stories from participants of the Ballymun Adult Read and Write scheme.
Among the memories shared were the making of the 2002 movie ‘Bloody Sunday’, when Ballymun was used to recreate Derry.
Also included at the event were old newspaper articles and maps and photos of Ballymun before and after the regeneration.
Photographer Jim Leonard, who curated the photos for the exhibition, expressed his delight at being invited to be part of the historic exhibition.
“I was honoured to be asked to curate the photography part of this exhibition which houses submissions from regular contributors here which include Michael Keating, Nollaig Kelly, Seamus Kelly, Bob Dixon, Peter O’Doherty and Mary O Connor amongst other Ballymunners and includes photographic memories in black and white and colour stretching back to the 1960s,” he said.
Jim also thanked Leigh Hussey, Mark O’Brien and all at Axis Ballymun, with support from Dublin City Council.