Bringing Dublin’s Streets To Life – Subset’s Mission To Brighten Up Our Capital

Anyone who strolls the streets of Dublin is sure to have come across some of Subset’s work. They are the artists behind the giant Stormzy mural that went up in Smithfield when he was due to play, causing such a shockwave throughout the city that Stormzy himself got word and paid it a visit.

Other recognisable features include Kanye, Michael D Higgins, Freddie Mercury, Blindboy and of course, Mrs. Doyle.

But covering Dublin in famous faces and beautifully designed artwork is just the start. Subset have been known not to shy away from political matters and often have huge impacts on the issues they choose to fight.

Some of the notable issues they have fought are Repeal, MeToo and the Homeless crisis. In fact, they sell prints, clothing and they have had two exhibitions where all proceeds have gone to ICHH (Inner City Helping Homeless).

You may be asking yourself, how come I haven’t seen any of these pieces? Or you may have checked out the area where they were supposed to be, only to find a grey wall. This is where Subset’s biggest fight lies. Dublin City Council (DCC). Because of the strict system, which involves money, a lot of hassle and way too much time spent to erect such pieces, Subset often don’t even apply.

This is why DCC end up replacing these masterpieces with grey paint. Again, Subset have not shied away from their disgust at this system by starting a campaign called Grey Area Project which is basically a street-art protest.

I, for one, would love to see more of these murals kept around the city. They add life to some of our greyest areas.

Here are six of my favourite pieces:

Stormzy

This giant mural popped up in Smithfield and the man himself paid it a visit.

Two Irish Greats

Mrs. Doyle and the main man, our president – Miggeldy Higgins. Side by side on the front of Siopaella.