Dublin Needs to Dance, Alicia Donnan

Dublin Needs to Dance is a photographic exploration of youth and queer nightlife in Dublin, captured through an intimate lens of interior spaces where community and culture thrive. Against the backdrop of a rapidly disappearing club scene, this project documents the resilience and vibrancy of Dublin’s dance scene through 35mm film photography. Set within student houses, local pubs, gig venues and beloved queer spaces like Mother Club and The George. This series captures the emotional and physical interiors that have become sanctuaries for expression, identity and joy. Each space depicts a story of connection and celebration, making the rooms visible where Dublin continues to dance.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Alicia Donnan is a visual artist based across Dublin and Kildare, whose work focuses on creating truthful and resonant visual narratives reflecting on the lives of queer youth and young people affected by Ireland’s housing crisis. Her photographic practice aims to document the nuances of identity and community through an empathic and collaborative lens. Her process is rooted in open communication and she ensures each image reflects both her vision and the individuality of her subjects. By prioritizing trust and representation, she crafts visual narratives that are intimate and strongly reflective of contemporary life in Dublin.

Self-published
Soft cover
First edition
24 pages
148 x 210 mm