Iconic Dublin Mural Replaced by NFL Graffiti Ahead of Game

UPDATE: An iconic mural in Dublin has been painted over, replaced by NFL-themed graffiti just ahead of a highly anticipated American football game at Croke Park this weekend. The mural, titled Do Not Remove, once adorned a two-storey hoarding on Ormond Quay and featured a striking image of a man with bricks covering his head.

The mural, a collaboration between Brazilian artist Neto Vettorello and Dublin artist Asbestos, was commissioned to commemorate 200 years of Brazilian independence and was seen as a gift from the Brazilian community to Dublin. It has now been nearly fully obscured by new NFL artwork, as the city prepares for the arrival of thousands of visitors for the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings on October 15, 2023.

Artists began painting over the mural earlier today, as part of a broader rollout of football-themed installations across Dublin, including notable pieces on Tara Street and Dame Street, as well as a giant football helmet at Barnardo Square. Local reactions to the change have been mixed, with one passerby describing the new NFL artwork as “gaudy-looking.”

The decision to replace the Do Not Remove mural reportedly came from Dublin City Council, although officials have yet to confirm this. An artist involved in the installation mentioned that the NFL branding will be painted over following the game on Sunday, indicating a temporary nature to the current artwork.

The original mural, painted in 2022, was a bold commentary on urban decay and the ongoing housing crisis in Dublin, blending vibrant colors and styles from both artists. Its removal marks a significant shift in the artistic landscape of the city, highlighting the tension between cultural expression and commercial interests.

As preparations intensify for the NFL game this weekend, residents and visitors alike are left to grapple with the changes to the iconic mural. The city is buzzing with excitement and anticipation for the event, which is expected to draw significant international attention and economic activity.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and as Dublin continues to transform in preparation for the influx of American football fans.