I got an invite to go to their inaugural night which happened around Dublin Cultural night. It was…read morefree to the public, I don't want you to think that I am extra special! I just am always exploring new things. It's a beautiful spot, the walls and light in there are wonderful. Ian & Monika are the founders of this movement, which I think is very ballsy of them to start a new venture in such hard times, but they are passionate about the arts. There is so much going on there, from writing classes to music events to readings... Just check out their website, it's packed with info. When I went, there was a poetry reading which I really enjoyed, i thought that it wouldn't be my cup of tea, there also was free drinks and snacks - nice :) I actually bumped into my old art teacher from secondary school there, which was bizarre but also pretty cool. It seemed that the fact I was utter brat was water under the bridge, nothing was said of the clay fights we had... That poor woman. I really admire what this place is striving to do for the city, long may it continue.

I heard the name "Centre for Creative Practices" before but have never been here…read more I friend had his exhibition here and I came for the opening night. After some difficulty finding the place I enjoyed the atmosphere in the basement venue a lot. The bare walls might not be ideal for exhibitions as they can take away from the pictures but they surely add to the atmosphere. A lovely old Georgian basement spot with deep window sills you even can sit on. (One of) The owner of the centre spoke as an introduction and made a very friendly and knowledgeable impression. I can imagine how nice it would be to come for concerts or other events here. If I'd be closer to town I most likely would join as a member and avail of their events more.

The Lir is Trinity's Dramatic Arts Academy and its façade is easily recognisable by the green…read more"bubbles" on the wall facing Pearse Street, right across the street from Valentino's. There are (at least) two stages, neither of them too big, and they can sit maybe around 40-80 people. The tickets aren't expensive, around 10-15€. During the year they run a programme with various kinds of plays and there's also a showcase in the summer, where they can highlight the work of their last-year graduates. This is a way their students get some experience, either as actors, writers or scenographers. I believe all the support staff - bar, tickets - are also students. For us, the regular public, it's a chance to catch a glimpse of raw talent, some more experimental productions and even new material. I've seen some really good acting and stage design there, but you also get the occasional mediocre actor, which is fine, because they're still students so it's expected that not everything will be as polished as in a more professional production. The bar serves all the usual things: glasses of wine, tea, coffee and some snacks, but remember to have some money on you, as they don't take cards. A very nice place to have in your neighbourhood, but unfortunately overlooked by most Docklands dwellers.

We noticed West Pier Art Studio on our walk down the pier after taking a boat tour of Ireland's…read moreEye. We called to arrange an appointment, and are so glad that we did. It is clear that Alan has a real passion for his work, and he spent a lot of time explaining the history and tradition that inspire him. He was patient while we explored the different prints, offering advice without ever being pushy. He answered all of our questions and we ended up with some prints that we absolutely love and that will bring us fond memories of Howth for years. This studio is a must for anyone looking for authentic, original prints and a relaxed, no-pressure atmosphere.

From the owner: Dublin Artist Alan McLeod has an art studio and gallery on the West Pier in Howth, Co. Dublin,…read moreIreland.

Film Base is a great learning centre. I have done a course here and I thoroughly recommend the…read moreclasses. They range from scriptwriting to film-making. The classes are affordable and the teachers have experience of working in the industry. The building itself is very impressive, there is a gallery downstairs open to the public and a public cafe upstairs. They also run free lectures, talks and exhibitions from time to time. The staff are helpful and approachable. Also it's central location in Temple Bar makes it accessible by all public transport routes.

You can be fairly confident in saying that without filmbase there wouldn't be much of an Irish film…read moreindustry. It is through filmbase initiatives that the majority of new Irish talent have cut their teeth, and long may it continue.

This is the oldest Painting School in Ireland and is ideal for an amateur like myself. I really…read moreenjoyed the experience and made the advancement I was looking for. It wasn't expensive and for what I got, a bargain. Lot's of nice students, who I am still in touch with. I will be going again.

We loved this little shop!! Small but so many treasures! The owner was in and we had such a lovely…read morevisit with her!! If you are in Dublin, GO TO THIS SHOP!! Closed Monday. Around the corner from St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Best yarn shop in Dublin…read more The owner is wonderfully friendly and helpful. There's such a great selection of yarn for such a small shop and it all seams to be decently priced. There's a great space upstairs where they do craft workshops and classes, unfortunately I haven't been to one yet. The window display is always inspirational and a joy to behold. Can't recommend it enough, just drop in and you won't be disappointed.