This piece of sculpture was in place for 10 years before I realised it existed – unfortunately the time I had to enjoy it was very limited.
2018.08.19
In May 2016, Micko told of his encounter walking the dog one evening. Coming up the quays by Penrose House, and approaching the bridge, he heard someone talking but there was no one nearby. Some investigation revealed that the four stainless steel structures were responsible for the sound of voices – only two of them actually.
Today I spotted a retweet from the Crawford Art Gallery that reminded me of the chat, my subsequent visits to the Listening Posts, and my promise to self to write a short blog on art installations not just being for the unveiling ceremony and plaque unveiling – some art needs some maintenance, a little love and affection.
A few days after the chat with Micko, I went down to Penrose Quay. Two of the pieces were damaged and being used as litter receptacles. The other two were broadcasting lists relating to exports and passengers from the Port of Cork. I stopped and listened for a while – some nice chill out time. After this, I went a bit out of my way a few times to hear the messages – but then they were gone.
Today I spotted a retweet from the Crawford Art Gallery that reminded me of the chat, my subsequent visits to the Listening Posts, and my promise to self to write a short blog on art installations not just being for the unveiling ceremony and plaque unveiling – some art needs some maintenance, a little love and affection.
A few days after the chat with Micko, I went down to Penrose Quay. Two of the pieces were damaged and being used as litter receptacles. The other two were broadcasting lists relating to exports and passengers from the Port of Cork. I stopped and listened for a while – some nice chill out time. After this, I went a bit out of my way a few times to hear the messages – but then they were gone.
Daphne Wright & Johnny Hanrahan - Respect The Artist
Less than a year after I first heard the Listening Posts, the other two fell silent due to vandalism. This evening, I went back to check and they are still silent, more than three years later. Even worse, they have been used as a tying post for some fencing but the tie has rusted causing damage to the unloved art.
With the extent of office, residential and apartment development in this area, it would be great to think that Cork City Council might remove the hoarded off area which definitely dissuades potential visitors – and it was there in the photograph from 2006.
But more importantly, it would be brilliant if Cork City Council decided to reinstate the art installation – but I am not holding my breath.
With the extent of office, residential and apartment development in this area, it would be great to think that Cork City Council might remove the hoarded off area which definitely dissuades potential visitors – and it was there in the photograph from 2006.
But more importantly, it would be brilliant if Cork City Council decided to reinstate the art installation – but I am not holding my breath.
If you do want to hear the recordings from the Listening Posts, going to Penrose Quay will not satisfy that desire – but you can listen to it on the website of the Frith Street Gallery
