A new perspective on limerick street art as the positive note comes to the surface with street artist HEART This City Loves You.
This City Loves You street art spread through Limerick City
By I Love Limerick Correspondent Sophie Goodwin
When people think of street art, most of the time they think graffiti, vandalism, anti-social. But this isn’t always the case. Especially in Limerick City. World-renowned street artists from all corners of the earth have come to Limerick to make their mark, and what they leave behind are vibrant, powerful, thought-provoking murals and messages.
One well known mural in particular is the work of artist Smug commissioned for the Make a Move Festival located on Castle Street, next to King John’s Castle, or the beautiful text “Culture Is Where We Are From” on shop windows of Patricks Street which was made during Limerick’s campaign to become European Capital of Culture 2020 of which Limerick lost to Galway City yet it remains to hold its message. Limerick folk do not see these works of art along with many more over the years as vandalism or an act of anti-socialism but pure colour and creativity in the city.
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This City Loves You street art by artist HEART in Limerick City
But why is it that those unheard-of artists work show up on street corners, limerick’s quirky alleys and under our beautiful bridges? Many local street artists portray their message purely to bring colour and local creativity to their proud city.
I Love Limerick spoke to one artist who goes by the name of HEART on their street art and opinions on “tagging” in Limerick City. HEART tags their art across the city spreading a completely positive message only. You may have seen their work in passing, whether it is the name HEART or their slogan “This City Loves You”. HEART said, “remember when there was that wave of suicides at the river last year? Well back then I decided to throw out a message saying ‘This City Loves You’ written in places where anyone in need of love might see it”. HEART continues to spread their message of love. Their purpose is to spread love across the city for all people in it, living or visiting. A reminder that if you feel nobody else does, this city will always love you.
HEART also said that “street art is not supposed to be permanent”, it comes and goes. It passes by and makes room for more murals and messages, for more artists work.
So if you pass the words “This City Loves You” on your way to work or out on a night out, remember that this city does love all of us. That not all graffiti has a bad message but expresses kindness, love and creativity.
To explore more on Limerick Street art, click here
For more stories on street art in Limerick City, click here
