Dublin 2011

For the Dublin 2011 series, Palmer performed an Amazing-Race-style adventure to feature locations in each of his eleven paintings that matched up to the first eleven Postal Codes.

Artist Statement

“If you know me, you know very well that I don’t like to feel trapped. My Art Movement of Escapism is all about freedom. It is intended to manifest the message that artists are capable of standing on their own two feet, enjoying success, and not being handicapped by the traditional art gallery system. I pride myself on writing my own rules and not following the rules of others. However, with my trip to Dublin, Ireland, I willingly left all of the planning and itinerary creation up to my husband Ryan. He told me that it was his passion to ensure that I see as much of Dublin as possible—with a specific goal of visiting at least one location in the first eleven Dublin Postal Code Districts. Oh, God. What was I in for?

At first glimpse of my touring “schedule,” I balked at the extremely regimented agenda. I thought that I would truly feel “trapped” by Ryan’s minute-by-minute itinerary. But, as I reflect on the journey, I would not change a single thing. Each and every stop was overwhelmingly inspiring. I can find beauty in all environments—a castle, a jail, a pub, a shopping centre, and even a cemetery. I am most proud of the Dublin 2011 art series because it not only contains my unique “Palmer” style but, it is also a genuine reflection of the breathtaking and historic Irish capital city. As I told Ryan many times on our trip, “I feel like we’re on the Amazing Race. Except…we aren’t competing with anyone…which means we already won!” My study-abroad adventure to Dublin, Ireland was a victory on all accounts. Although my ancestry does not come from Ireland, I believe that I am now a tried-and-true Irishman at heart. In the Dublin 2011 art series, you will see the pride, passion, and power of the Irish people, history, and honored traditions. I hope that you will love it as much as I loved its creation.”

John Ross Palmer