A once overlooked laneway in the heart of Drogheda is being brought to life through a breathtaking new public art project celebrating the rich flora and fauna of the Boyne Valley. Stretching an impressive 40 metres, the mural is already transforming Meatmarket lane into a vibrant space. Inspired by the beauty of the River Boyne and its surrounding landscapes, the artwork features stunning depictions of native wildlife and woodland scenes, including a heron, kingfisher, wren, fox, Irish rabbit, bluebells and wild garlic. Rich in colour and detail, the mural creates a visual celebration of the biodiversity and quiet beauty that exists all around us in the Boyne Valley.
The work is being created by the acclaimed artist Friz, who previously captivated audiences in Drogheda through the DRAWDA Urban Art Trail with her striking mural of “The Morrigan” on Patrick Street. Based in Northern Ireland, Friz is widely recognised for her immersive large-scale artworks inspired by folklore, identity and the natural world. Her distinctive style and storytelling ability made her the perfect choice to reimagine Meatmarket Lane and to help compliment the Etain Mural which had been painted by Nina Valkoff.
Friz stated “This was a project I was so happy to get on board with. I love championing Irish wildlife in my work, and the wall lent itself to featuring quite a few elements due to the length. I wanted to have a nice contrast between the shadowed parts of the undergrowth with the vibrancy that sunlight brings to the landscape. From the rabbit hiding in the bramble from the stalking fox to a bluebell studded wood and the life-giving water’s edge. Hopefully this mural injects a lot of colour into the lane way.”
Trevor Connolly, CEO of Love Drogheda BID, said the project represents much more than simply painting a wall.
“This mural is about transforming how people feel when they move through a space. Meatmarket Lane is a very well-used pedestrian route, but for many years it lacked colour, vibrancy, and a sense of care. That is now coming back with fresh new openings of El Grito and Cats Corner Anime Gift Shop. What Friz has created is extraordinary, a piece that stops people in their tracks and reconnects us with the natural beauty and wildlife of the Boyne Valley.
Public art has the power to completely change the atmosphere of an area. It creates pride and helps people see familiar places in a new way. We hope this mural becomes another landmark piece for Drogheda and part of the growing story of creativity happening across the town” The project also demonstrates the power of local collaboration between Love Drogheda BID and our partners who assisted in the delivery of the mural Droichead Arts Centre, Penneys, DHS Complete Hire and Murtaghs of Drogheda and investing in the continued improvement of Drogheda’s public spaces.
For further information on the project, please contact the Love Drogheda BID office.
