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The Mocking Shadow of a Doubt

Andy Fitz, 2025

Location: Dartmouth Square, Dublin 6

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For his first public sculpture commission, Andy Fitz has recreated an iconic Dublin lamppost, a Victorian-era design with shamrock detailing. The commission is in honour of the author Lafcadio Hearn (1850–1904), who is best known for his ghost stories. The familiar lamppost is remade with a slight twist; the neck bends inward to gaze on itself. Its hefty roadside design is eerily out of place in the grassy corner of the residential square. Despite these and other small indicators, it is like any other lamppost. A sculpture that disappears. At dusk, it turns on with the other lights in the city. 

“Whoever pretends not to believe in ghosts of any sort, lies to his own heart. Every man is haunted by ghosts … though most of us are unwilling to confess the acquaintance.” 

Lafcadio Hearn, Japanese Ghost Stories

The Mocking Shadow of a Doubt by artist Andy Fitz is situated on the southeast corner of Dartmouth Square. The commission was initiated by the Upper Leeson Street Area Residents Association (ULSARA), with generous funding from Carmencita Hederman, and Dublin City Council. 

With thanks to, Carmencita Hederman, Upper Leeson Street Area Residents’ Association, Dublin City Council Parks and Landscape Services, & Dublin City Council Arts Office. The Mocking Shadow of a Doubt is part of Strand 3 of the Public Art Programme. 

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