‘Freedom,’ by Alexandra Wejchert, was installed on the North Campus of MU in September 2021
‘Freedom’ sculpture anchors North Campus
11.5-metre stainless steel sculpture by Alexandra Wejchert loaned by AIB
In September, just days before the much-anticipated return to campus for students and staff, Maynooth University proudly welcomed to its North Campus ‘Freedom,’ a striking and stately stainless steel sculpture by Alexandra Wejchert on long-term loan from AIB.
Commissioned by the bank in 1985, the stainless-steel sculpture stands at 11.5 m (37 ft) high and was considered among the most ambitious large-scale exterior sculptures in Ireland. Following the relocation of the AIB headquarters from Ballsbridge, the sculpture required a new site and is now a defining feature on the landscape of Maynooth University, as a publicly accessible exterior artwork for the community and the wider region.
“Maynooth University is committed to fostering art and culture, a commitment that is not only an ethos but also underlined in our Strategic Plan. We have a long-standing relationship with AIB and are delighted to have the opportunity to add such an important piece of sculpture to our campus. It is especially fitting that we have installed this striking sculpture as we prepare to welcome students back on campus at the start of the academic year.”
Commissioned by the bank in 1985, the stainless-steel sculpture stands at 11.5 m (37 ft) high and was considered among the most ambitious large-scale exterior sculptures in Ireland. Following the relocation of the AIB headquarters from Ballsbridge, the sculpture required a new site and is now a defining feature on the landscape of Maynooth University, as a publicly accessible exterior artwork for the community and the wider region.
Colin Hunt, Chief Executive Officer of AIB, said: “AIB is delighted to find such a fitting home for Freedom in Maynooth University, where it will be cared for, and enjoyed by the staff, students and the public. The bank has an extensive art lending programme with galleries, public spaces, community buildings, colleges and State institutions so that the maximum numbers of the public can access some of the most important works from its collection.”
The unveiling of ‘Freedom’ represents another landmark event for Maynooth campus development, as construction continues on a €57 million project, the Technology, Innovation & Society Building, due to be completed in early 2022. Also on the North Campus, a planned new Student Centre will serve as a hub and workspace for students engaged in cultural events, clubs and societies, and a wider variety of activities.
The University intends to further enhance the intellectual and cultural life of campus and the wider region through deeper engagement with the arts.
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