A SCULPTURE BY JACKIE McKENNA
THE MEETING PLACE IS A SCULPTURE BY JACKIE McKENNA [LOCALLY KNOWN AS THE HAGS WITH THE BAGS]
If you're a tourist in Dublin, you'll likely encounter some of the city's colourful characters. While often harmless, these individuals may attempt to engage you with unsolicited advice or fabricated historical anecdotes. It's wise to be polite but disengage promptly, regardless of their apparent charm. Even locals, myself included, have occasionally struggled to follow this advice. For instance, years ago, while photographing the sculpture known as 'The Meeting Place' (or more colloquially, 'Hags with the Bags'), a man demanded payment for the privilege. Upon my refusal, he resorted to insults, prompting a sharp retort from me. This incident serves as a reminder that not all encounters are pleasant.
The sculpture itself, officially titled 'Meeting Place', is the work of Jackie McKenna, unveiled in 1988 to commemorate Dublin's millennium. It depicts two women pausing from their shopping, their bags set aside. The popular nickname, 'Hags with the Bags', although sometimes deemed disrespectful, has become deeply ingrained in the city's lexicon. It reflects, for many, an affectionate familiarity.
Despite the occasional controversy surrounding its name, the sculpture has become a beloved landmark. Its portrayal of everyday life resonates with both Dubliners and visitors, offering a snapshot of the city's vibrant character. So, next time you cross the Halfpenny Bridge, take a moment to appreciate 'Hags with the Bags' and the stories they silently convey.
If you're a tourist in Dublin, you'll likely encounter some of the city's colourful characters. While often harmless, these individuals may attempt to engage you with unsolicited advice or fabricated historical anecdotes. It's wise to be polite but disengage promptly, regardless of their apparent charm. Even locals, myself included, have occasionally struggled to follow this advice. For instance, years ago, while photographing the sculpture known as 'The Meeting Place' (or more colloquially, 'Hags with the Bags'), a man demanded payment for the privilege. Upon my refusal, he resorted to insults, prompting a sharp retort from me. This incident serves as a reminder that not all encounters are pleasant.
The sculpture itself, officially titled 'Meeting Place', is the work of Jackie McKenna, unveiled in 1988 to commemorate Dublin's millennium. It depicts two women pausing from their shopping, their bags set aside. The popular nickname, 'Hags with the Bags', although sometimes deemed disrespectful, has become deeply ingrained in the city's lexicon. It reflects, for many, an affectionate familiarity.
Despite the occasional controversy surrounding its name, the sculpture has become a beloved landmark. Its portrayal of everyday life resonates with both Dubliners and visitors, offering a snapshot of the city's vibrant character. So, next time you cross the Halfpenny Bridge, take a moment to appreciate 'Hags with the Bags' and the stories they silently convey.
A SCULPTURE BY JACKIE McKENNA