Sixth SEEK Festival in Dundalk set to be 'sensational'

A “sensational showcase” is planned for SEEK Urban Arts Festival 2024, with the festival organisers revealing the “exciting line-up” of artists, both Irish and international, who will be taking part.

International artists, Monkey Bird Crew, L7 Matrix, and Bublegum will be joining the festival for the first time, and returning for a second time is Mr. Copy. Organisers say that “this sensational cast of international artists are expected to arrive in Dundalk between 31 May and 8 June and expectations are high!”

With familiar themes, and some unorthodox approaches, SEEK organisers say that these artists’ styles are informed and influenced by genres spanning 15th Century etching to 20th Century graffiti art, and futuristic graphic art.

Town Centre Commercial Manager, Martin McElligott explained: “As always, the source of inspiration for each piece will be Dundalk’s rich history and heritage. We are very excited about the new themes chosen this year, as well as revisiting and reimagining some of the older ones.

“Street art is characterised by its transient nature, which contrasts with the more permanent forms of traditional art. It is also influenced by factors such as weather and pollution, and with passage of time these environmental factors contribute to degradation.”

This year marks the sixth annual SEEK Urban Arts Festival and the festival has become a highly anticipated event in the street art calendar. The festival's humble origins as a creative regeneration project demonstrate, the organisers say, how art can be a powerful tool for revitalising town centres, fostering community pride, celebrating local culture and attracting visitors.

Sarah Daly of Creative Spark, festival partner, is “looking forward to another year of excitement, colour and telling the story of Dundalk. We love producing the children’s workshops on the first Saturday of the festival with our Mobile FabLab, letting children express themselves through paint and get involved in imaging their own street art pieces.”

Dundalk Tourism Officer, Sinéad Roche said: “The festival's increasing popularity highlights the cultural significance of street art as an opportunity to connect people to the places they visit. The murals bring our stories to life, making them tangible and accessible in everyday spaces, and bridge the gap between past and present.”

Moya Hodgers, Louth County Arts Officer and Creative Ireland Coordinator said: “The Creative Ireland Louth team are pleased to support the 2024 SEEK Festival. The public art murals have breathed new life into the Dundalk area and are a fantastic tourist attraction.

“The work the committee do throughout the year with the walking tours is testament to their commitment to continuously promoting Dundalk.

“It has highlighted the town as a hub that embraces creativity and gives locals and visitors something to engage with and enjoy throughout the year. I look forward to seeing the new works unveiled and wish the team the very best of luck with the festival.”

Martin concluded: “It has been incredible to work with our project partners Creative Spark and Louth County Council, and alongside our longstanding sponsors Colourtrend Paints and Creative Ireland. This year’s festival is also kindly sponsored by Fáilte Ireland, McAteers The Good Food House and Mo Chara.”