President Michael D Higgins welcomed over 200 people who have arrived from around the world for Europe’s biggest display of street art in Galway this week.
Fresh Street #3 brings together professional artists, journalists, researchers, pedagogues, and policy makers for a three day spectacle in Galway exploring street art both as a medium to entertain and as a tool for social, cultural, and political change.
Delegates coming from the world over will spend their time in traditional conference rooms, roaming the streets of Galway, and travelling out to Inis Oírr to connect with the local community and natural environment.
An important topic being addressed over the three days of Fresh Street is that sense of place and identity; how street art can influence it, and be influenced by it.
Speaking ahead of the opening of Fresh Street #3 President Higgins said “Street arts taking place in the shared everyday spaces so familiar to us all, peopling the public world, can help ensure thus art and creativity will also take their place in the other, intangible shared spaces of our societies.”
“I have no doubt that during your stay in Galway – designated European Capital of Culture in 2020 – you will enjoy the special atmosphere and the breath of talent that is on display here.”
“As you gather to discuss the benefits and challenges associated with street art and outdoor performances, I hope it will assist you in situating your discussions in a context of inclusion and civic empowerment.”
Of course this won’t just be a dusty academic exercise. There will be plenty of incredible displays from local, national and international companies this week for the delegates and all to see.
On Wednesday at 10pm people can catch a breathtaking illuminated parade through the streets of Galway city from 10pm from LUXE Theatre.
LUXE are presenting Imramh – The Ship of Destiny which will take the audience on a magical journey through Shop street and down to Nimmo’s pier for the grand finale.
People will also encounter outdoor arts on Inis Oírr, a high wire workshop across the Claddagh basin and a dance performance above and below the water in the Claddagh Basin.
Now in its third year, Fresh Street #3 is co-organised by Circostrada, ARTCENA in partnership with Galway 2020 and the Irish Street Arts Circus and Spectacle Network (ISACS).
Helen Marriage, Creative Director of Galway 2020, said that it’s an honour for them to be hosting such a prestigious international gathering.
“Art that takes place in the public realm is a powerful force for transformation; it can make people see their world differently and open to new possibilities, staying in the imagination long after the ephemeral moment has passed.”
She added that it “reaches people who may not even realise they are experiencing art.”
Helen welcomed all the guest arriving from Europe and beyond and said they look forward to seeing more street art next year during the Capital of Culture.
The full programme of events taking place throughout Galway city and county over the next three days can be downloaded from Circostrada online.
