Below is an excerpt from my essay style piece I included in a zine entered into the Archi Zines competition. It is titled 'All of the Lights' and discusses light within the context of a city environment. The zine was an extension of Groundwork, a recently established initiative I am part of. Its aim is to facilitate the research of members through an exploration of the infrastructure and architecture of Dublin and its surroundings. Monthly tours and outings are the basis of the group.
If you are interested in joining or would like more information, visit
groundworkdublin.tumblr.com
All of the Lights
'Cities are places built up around trade and industrialisation. Where people flock for jobs, yet exist beyond their occupation. One is not just, as in small provincial towns, a butcher, a baker, a candlestick maker. With many people seeking security and excitement it becomes vital for each person to create their own identities. When you have been drawn to the bright lights you must stand out amongst the thousands of others. The distinction can be something that you have brought with you but in the depths and lanes and dance halls and shopping centres you are also given the opportunity to start afresh and create an identity that is entirely yours. This diversity of people is also what makes cities special. Is this why cities are filled with lights? To draw things to them. People are intrinsically drawn to light’s bright mysteries, but also to its strength. The sun supplies warmth and nourishment, as does fire. Both can also turn against civilisation. Either way light has been used excessively and notably by religions all across the world and has become essential to a blanket visual associated with cities - the larger, the brighter.'
The above picture is from the inside cover and was taken by Katie Mooney Sheppard - http://www.katiemooneysheppard.com/ The other collaborators were Aine Gallagher, Anna Gallagher and Lorna Murphy. I am currently looking into an inline version of the finished zine as it is a gorgeous publicationa nd I am very proud of it. Currently there is only one hard copy of it.
