BRONZE COW AT WOOD QUAY
ENJOYING THE SUN IS A SCULPTURE OF A COW BY JACKIE McKENNA [TODAY I USED A SIGMA QUATTRO Dp3]
Today, while photographing Jackie McKenna's sculpture, 'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”', I used my Sigma Quattro Dp3. This follows my recent use of the Dp1, as I evaluate my collection of Sigma cameras to determine their continued relevance.
The Sigma Quattro Dp3, renowned for its exceptional image quality at low ISO settings, is a camera with distinctive strengths and weaknesses. Its unique Foveon X3 sensor captures colour in a way that yields images often compared to medium format, boasting remarkable detail and colour accuracy. The fixed 50mm f/2.8 lens (75mm equivalent) complements the sensor, contributing to the images' sharpness. Furthermore, the camera exhibits robust build quality.
However, the Dp3's unconventional design results in awkward ergonomics. Its performance is notably slow, with sluggish autofocus and overall operation, rendering it unsuitable for fast-paced photography. The Foveon sensor struggles in low-light conditions, producing noticeable noise at higher ISO settings. Battery life is inconsistent and often frustratingly short, varying from 40 to 80 images per charge. Additionally, the required Sigma Photo Pro software is considered clunky and challenging to use. Crucially, it lacks features common in other cameras, such as video recording and image stabilisation.
These limitations, including slow performance, poor high ISO performance, and unusual ergonomics, relegated the Dp3 to a niche market. It is not a general-purpose camera, but rather a specialised tool for specific photographic applications. The demanding workflows necessary to maximise its potential further limit its appeal.
Jackie McKenna's 'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”' (2003) is a life-size bronze sculpture of a reclining cow. Originally commissioned by AXA Insurance and installed in Wolfe Tone Square, Dublin, in 2003, it was later moved to Wood Quay during renovations in 2017. The sculpture, created using the lost wax method and informed by local farmers' insights for anatomical accuracy, remains at Wood Quay today.
Jackie McKenna, born in Manorhamilton, County Leitrim, in 1958, studied Fine Art in Sligo and Sculpture at Dun Laoghaire College of Art. For over four decades, she has specialised in site-specific, large-scale outdoor sculptures, often through public commissions.
McKenna's artistic philosophy extends beyond aesthetics, emphasising social engagement and community building. She collaborates with diverse groups, including refugees, asylum seekers, prisoners, and family carers, through participatory workshops. Her work explores themes of memory, identity, and cultural diversity, fostering dialogue and understanding.
McKenna believes art should be accessible and transformative. Her practice often involves collaboration with writers, actors, musicians, and filmmakers, enriching her creative process. She has also contributed significantly to the Irish arts scene, serving on the Cultural Relations Committee and co-founding the Leitrim Sculpture Centre in 1997.
Notable works by Jackie McKenna include:
Loughshinney Yawl (2020) - Loughshinney, Co. Dublin
Mo Cheoil Thu – Music Path (2019) - Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim
Mountains & Glens – Installation (2019) - Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim
Church Fields (2018) - Ashbourne, Co. Meath
Danu (2016) - Drumshanbo Community Park
Ar Scath a Cheile a Mhaireann na Daoine (2015-16) - Ballinamore Community School
Brian Stack – Bust (2013) - Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Irish Women Workers Union - Installation (2012) - Dublin
The Garden of Sound – Public Garden (2008-09) - Culfadda, Sligo
U.N.I.F.I.L. Memorial (2007) - Sligo
Train-Spotter – Public Sculpture (2005) - Dromod, Co. Leitrim
Giant Clam Shell with Constellations (2004) - Killybegs Fishery Harbour Centre
William Butler Yeats Commerative Sculpture (2002) - Drumcliffe, Co. Sligo
Meeting Place (1988) - Dublin
'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”' is more than a sculpture; it embodies community engagement and artistic innovation. Its creation, involving local farmers, and its placement in Wolfe Tone Square, reflect McKenna's inclusive approach and the enduring connection between art and culture.
McKenna's work, characterised by social engagement and the exploration of memory, identity, and cultural diversity, solidifies her position as a significant figure in Irish sculpture. Her contributions to the arts scene, including her involvement in the Sculpture Society of Ireland and the Leitrim Sculpture Centre, further underscore her impact. 'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”' stands as a testament to her artistic vision and dedication.
Today, while photographing Jackie McKenna's sculpture, 'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”', I used my Sigma Quattro Dp3. This follows my recent use of the Dp1, as I evaluate my collection of Sigma cameras to determine their continued relevance.
The Sigma Quattro Dp3, renowned for its exceptional image quality at low ISO settings, is a camera with distinctive strengths and weaknesses. Its unique Foveon X3 sensor captures colour in a way that yields images often compared to medium format, boasting remarkable detail and colour accuracy. The fixed 50mm f/2.8 lens (75mm equivalent) complements the sensor, contributing to the images' sharpness. Furthermore, the camera exhibits robust build quality.
However, the Dp3's unconventional design results in awkward ergonomics. Its performance is notably slow, with sluggish autofocus and overall operation, rendering it unsuitable for fast-paced photography. The Foveon sensor struggles in low-light conditions, producing noticeable noise at higher ISO settings. Battery life is inconsistent and often frustratingly short, varying from 40 to 80 images per charge. Additionally, the required Sigma Photo Pro software is considered clunky and challenging to use. Crucially, it lacks features common in other cameras, such as video recording and image stabilisation.
These limitations, including slow performance, poor high ISO performance, and unusual ergonomics, relegated the Dp3 to a niche market. It is not a general-purpose camera, but rather a specialised tool for specific photographic applications. The demanding workflows necessary to maximise its potential further limit its appeal.
Jackie McKenna's 'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”' (2003) is a life-size bronze sculpture of a reclining cow. Originally commissioned by AXA Insurance and installed in Wolfe Tone Square, Dublin, in 2003, it was later moved to Wood Quay during renovations in 2017. The sculpture, created using the lost wax method and informed by local farmers' insights for anatomical accuracy, remains at Wood Quay today.
Jackie McKenna, born in Manorhamilton, County Leitrim, in 1958, studied Fine Art in Sligo and Sculpture at Dun Laoghaire College of Art. For over four decades, she has specialised in site-specific, large-scale outdoor sculptures, often through public commissions.
McKenna's artistic philosophy extends beyond aesthetics, emphasising social engagement and community building. She collaborates with diverse groups, including refugees, asylum seekers, prisoners, and family carers, through participatory workshops. Her work explores themes of memory, identity, and cultural diversity, fostering dialogue and understanding.
McKenna believes art should be accessible and transformative. Her practice often involves collaboration with writers, actors, musicians, and filmmakers, enriching her creative process. She has also contributed significantly to the Irish arts scene, serving on the Cultural Relations Committee and co-founding the Leitrim Sculpture Centre in 1997.
Notable works by Jackie McKenna include:
Loughshinney Yawl (2020) - Loughshinney, Co. Dublin
Mo Cheoil Thu – Music Path (2019) - Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim
Mountains & Glens – Installation (2019) - Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim
Church Fields (2018) - Ashbourne, Co. Meath
Danu (2016) - Drumshanbo Community Park
Ar Scath a Cheile a Mhaireann na Daoine (2015-16) - Ballinamore Community School
Brian Stack – Bust (2013) - Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Irish Women Workers Union - Installation (2012) - Dublin
The Garden of Sound – Public Garden (2008-09) - Culfadda, Sligo
U.N.I.F.I.L. Memorial (2007) - Sligo
Train-Spotter – Public Sculpture (2005) - Dromod, Co. Leitrim
Giant Clam Shell with Constellations (2004) - Killybegs Fishery Harbour Centre
William Butler Yeats Commerative Sculpture (2002) - Drumcliffe, Co. Sligo
Meeting Place (1988) - Dublin
'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”' is more than a sculpture; it embodies community engagement and artistic innovation. Its creation, involving local farmers, and its placement in Wolfe Tone Square, reflect McKenna's inclusive approach and the enduring connection between art and culture.
McKenna's work, characterised by social engagement and the exploration of memory, identity, and cultural diversity, solidifies her position as a significant figure in Irish sculpture. Her contributions to the arts scene, including her involvement in the Sculpture Society of Ireland and the Leitrim Sculpture Centre, further underscore her impact. 'Ag Crú na Gréine “Enjoying the Sun”' stands as a testament to her artistic vision and dedication.
BRONZE COW AT WOOD QUAY