When I moved to Harold’s Cross, a full decade ago, to work as packaging designer for Neworld Associates, HXC had little to boast of. This evening La Galerie Impromptu, a pop up exhibition space in Harold’s Cross, hosts the opening of artist Dave Gleeson’s “Portraits”. The pop-up gallery is sandwiched neatly between The Workx salon and what is becoming a fast favourite, FivePoints cáfe.

You may be familiar with Dave Gleeson’s work, having spotted it on the top floor of the St. Stephen’s Green Centre. Over the weekend Dave will show a series of his incredibly detailed drawings as part of The Harold’s Cross Festival.

Dave’s inspiration came from his love of music. He grew up close to The National Stadium on The South Circular Road. He would often race home from school to see his favourite rock-stars setting up or having a sound-check ahead of their concert.

This childhood experience, observing the musician’s in their everyday life as opposed to their public persona,  is reflected in Dave’s work. We are used to seeing these superstars strutting their guitar-hero onstage pose, said Dave. But these portraits hold a uniqueness. He conveys the stars in their private moments, off duty enjoying a cup of tea in Bewley’s or strolling pasted the Olympia Theatre. The exhibition is curated by artist Eoin MacLochlainn. You can follow his art story on his blog Scéalta Ealaíne.

Next door you can grab, arguably one of best coffees in Dublin, ahead of the opening.  FivePoints have given their hipster exposed brick wall to exhibit the photography of Esther Moliné, in keeping with the artisic theme.

It also houses, the kept secret sun terrace in Dublin. With Santorini-eque white walls, these recent blue skies as a back drop, it makes for a gorgeous lunch in the sun.
Grab a coffee today, take a stroll in the park, be back for 6 and enjoy the portraiture exhibition. I will see you there. Sheila