Dublin is a city of learnings. While size and economy can never compare with the scale of London, Dublin’s community and spirit manifest collaborative friendships and memorable partnerships. While exploration of London’s promise of opportunity is sought by many, below is a cross-section of people who have sought and succeeded, thanks to the foundations Dublin has forged.
FRANCESCA O’BRIEN, Design Assistant at Shona Heath Studio
What did I take from Dublin?
When I left Dublin to embark on a set design career in London I definitely packed my creativity, curiosity and sense of humour in my carry-on luggage. I feel these have all served me well in making the transition to London. It is special living in a country you are not native to, by moving to London I have learned so much about myself that I had not realised was intrinsically linked with growing up in Ireland. I definitely received a lot of creative nourishment and took with me some fantastic skills from studying in N.C.A.D. It was one of the most formative times in my life.
What did I leave in Dublin?
Moving to London with three friends from university I realised early on that I had left behind my sense of community that I built during the twenty two years of living in Dublin. I had taken for granted some of these important relationships, but I see the preciousness of these friendships now that the opportunity to spend time together is less frequent.
How does creativity compare in Dublin to London?
I believe creativity is so linked with your experiences growing up. I think creativity is very personal and that we are made from the things we encounter in our lives. I believe coming from Dublin my cultural history is what makes my perspective special.
I think there is creativity in so many aspects of life from literature and music to food, craft and design. Dublin has an abundance of young creative individuals; their creativity needs to be given space and support in order to grow.
What are Dublin’s most memorable words of wisdom?
“When I die Dublin will be written on my heart” James Joyce
AINE GEOGHAN, Studio Manager at Gareth Pugh
What did I take from Dublin?
A strong penchant for collaboration and a yearning for all things creative! I was very lucky to work and study with lovely people in Dublin and I think this instilled in me a sense of openness.
What did I leave in Dublin?
A strong support network! Some of my first fashion jobs in Dublin were very nurturing environments which really grounded me in fashion. I don’t feel I could have made the move to London without this foundation.
How does creativity in Dublin compare to elsewhere?
Dublin’s creativity is fearless. There’s something about the smaller, safe working environments that the city provides, not to mention the sense of community and support to express oneself freely. I think there is an extremely high standard of creativity in Dublin, with everyone supporting each other to go further; I think this is what allows Irish creatives to flourish within international platforms
What are Dublin’s most memorable words of wisdom?
Always be genuine and approach everything wholeheartedly!
@ainejgdesign
GEMMA WILLIAMS, Writer & Curator
What did I take from Dublin?
Definitely my wanderlust.
What did I leave in Dublin?
A pink feather boa, thankfully, and lots of incredible friends.
How does creativity in Dublin compare to elsewhere?
When I lived there it was pretty challenging to be creative but it seems to have come alive over the last decade which is really exciting.
What are Dublin’s most memorable words of wisdom?
A bird never flew on one wing!
JOHN FOLEY, Costume Designer
What did I take from Dublin?
1. Dreams, plans and ambition.
2. The firm beginning of my own taste and creativity.
3. All the things that can never be taken from me – memories, experiences and the foundations of character.
What did I leave in Dublin?
1. The carefree parts of being young.
2. A naivety about how hard it is to get what you want.
How does creativity in Dublin compare to elsewhere?
I can only write about the time I lived there in the 70s and early 80s. Dublin had thriving and very productive art and music scenes in that time. However, back then it was limited in scope and possibilities. It was generally believed if you wanted a career in the arts you had to go to London or New York to get it.
What are Dublin’s most memorable words of wisdom?
If you can’t laugh at yourself you miss the biggest jokes in life.
ANDREW NUDING, Photographer
What did I take from Dublin?
A ‘Centra’ lighter
What did I leave in Dublin?
My girlfriend, my family, and my dogs.
How does creativity in Dublin compare to elsewhere?
Dublin is a small city so it’s difficult to compare it to somewhere big like New York or London. I think Irish people are some of the most creative and hard-working in the world. There have been a lot of really exciting and positive things happening in Dublin in the creative scene recently, but in saying that I don’t think the creative scene in Dublin is given the resources it needs to flourish.
What are Dublin’s most memorable words of wisdom?
‘It’ll be grand’ – it can be applied to anything.
Photography: Ellius Grace @elliusgrace
Interviews: Isabella Davey @isabellaroseceleste
