SWIMirl film and talk

A continuous eight-minute immersive film celebrating the swimming structures dotted along the Dublin coastline and the transformative power they have for the multitude of citizens who enjoy them. These simple static structures, some dating back to the 1800’s, are human-made extensions of the landscape, providing safe passage from the rocky shoreline into the
mercurial ocean.

Created by Robert Bourke Architects, filmmaker Marion Bergin and supported by Areaman Productions, this experiential collaboration is shot at four popular swim spots along the coast of Dublin: the Vico, High Rock Portmarnock, Clontarf Boat Club and the Bull Wall. We encounter diverse swimmers who regularly visit these spots to connect with the natural world and these brutalist concrete structures. These elements sit quietly in the film and, like the shelters themselves, their safe and grounding presence is felt amongst the cold waters and warm feelings of the piece.

SWIMirl is an abstract reflection upon the people we meet and the waters that connect them. The piece digitally communicates an irl (in real life) experience, demonstrating how emotion, warmth and solidarity can be felt and shared, regardless of location, within the limitless possibilities of technological advancement.

This debut Irish screening of SWIMirl, supported by the Irish Architectural Archive, Open House Dublin and Creative Ireland, was originally commissioned for the Hong Kong / Shenzhen Bi-City Biennale of Urbanism & Architecture in 2022.

Launch and discussion, Saturday 19th October, 12 – 12:45pm
A brief presentation and discussion with the creators of SWIMirl. Architect, Robert Bourke, filmmaker, Marion Bergin and producer, Shane Hogan, will reflect on their collaborative process and the creative synthesis of the film.

Drop-In.

For information, please visit openhousedublin.com.