PHOTOGRAPHED USING A VARIETY OF CAMERAS

LIGHT AND TURN BY MARK RYAN AT SCULPTURE IN CONTEXT 2025 [SEPTEMBER 2025]

Dublin Sculptor Mark Ryan: A Career of Material Mastery and Public Presence

Dublin sculptor Mark Ryan is a prominent artist known for his versatile command of materials and his significant contributions to public art. Working adeptly with wood, clay, steel, and bronze, Ryan creates sculptures that range from intimate forms to monumental public installations.

His work is held in national and international collections and features in major commissions for institutions like the Office of Public Works, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and University College Dublin. A notable recent piece, the ‘Heart Memorial’ at Tallaght University Hospital, highlights his capacity to create art that resonates deeply with the community.

A key feature of Ryan’s career is his long-standing participation in Sculpture in Context, the celebrated annual exhibition at Dublin’s National Botanic Gardens. A regular exhibitor, Ryan consistently uses this unique platform to engage a wide audience. As the exhibition nears its 40th anniversary in 2025, his continued presence underscores his lasting impact on the Irish art scene. His work has been recognized with accolades such as the Braun Prize at Eigse and the Halward Gallery Sculpture Prize.

Mark Ryan, sculptor, Dublin, Irish art, Sculpture in Context, National Botanic Gardens, public art, bronze, steel, wood, contemporary sculpture, Irish sculptor, public commissions, art exhibitions, Dublin art scene, William Murphy, Infomatique, September 2025,

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PHOTOGRAPHED FRIDAY 7 FEBRUARY 2025

“Who Made the World” is a sculpture by Cliodhna Cussen, located near the Herbert Park Hotel in Ballsbridge, Dublin. While her name sometimes appears with variant spellings (Cliona, Cliodhna, or Cliodna), the correct and most commonly used form is Cliodhna.

Cliodhna Cussen was born and educated in County Limerick, Ireland. She pursued her higher education in Dublin and Florence, Italy. She currently lives and works, dividing her time between Dublin and County Kerry. Cussen is a full-time sculptor, primarily working with bronze and stone. In addition to her sculptural work, she is involved with graphic arts at the Graphic Studio Dublin and also illustrates and publishes Irish children’s stories. She has exhibited extensively and has received numerous awards for her work, including the Listowel Gold Medal for sculpture and the sculpture prize at the Oireachtas.

“Who Made the World” is a bronze sculpture depicting four male figures lying on their backs, their legs and feet extended upwards to support a sphere representing the world. The figures are arranged in a formation reminiscent of football (soccer) players, their posture suggesting both effort and support. This prominent piece of public art invites multiple interpretations, reflecting themes related to creation, burden-bearing, and the interconnectedness of humanity and the Earth.

One interpretation sees the sculpture as a representation of human effort to support and sustain the world. However, another, equally valid reading, focuses on the figures’ maleness and the positioning of the world as a plaything or object of dominion. This interpretation suggests the sculpture can be seen as a commentary on male dominance and control, with the world held aloft by the figures’ feet, symbolising patriarchal influence and the potential for manipulation. It’s a striking example of Cussen’s work in public spaces, demonstrating how art can spark dialogue and encourage us to consider different viewpoints on complex themes.

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