DUBLIN, Ohio — Dublin has its infamous Field of Corn on display on Rings Road and now it has three giant orange snails sitting in a yard on Riverside Drive.
The three snails are part of a new exhibition going up at Dublin Arts Council, “Dwelling: A Snail’s Journey.” The pieces of art traveled from Milan, Italy where they were made by six Italian-based artists known as Cracking Art.
The opening reception for the new temporary exhibition will begin on May 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will work in coordination with the three snails.
Cracking Art investigates social and environmental issues through the conception and creation of art, which goes hand-in-hand with the new exhibition. According to the group, the snail is one of the most meaningful animals thanks to its regenerative properties that symbolize rebirth and improvement.
Dublin Arts Council added on its website, “The snail moves slowly and patiently, representing the importance of moving gradually and safely toward a target. Its “home,” or shell, is not only associated with domesticity but also with mass communication in Italy, as the Italian word for snail – chiocciola – is also the name used for the @ symbol. The helix of its shell, which allows the snail to both hear and move, emphasizes the importance of the ability to listen and the utility of the upward movement that regulates the universe.”
Those interested in seeing the giant snails can visit them on the front lawn of the Dublin Arts Council at 7125 Riverside Dr. in Dublin.
The council grounds will only be the first stop on the snail’s Dublin journey. The intention, according to Dublin Arts Council, is that the snails will travel to other sites in the community. During programs, the council will work to gather input from the community, encouraging those who live, work, visit, learn and play in Dublin to help build the snails’ story and journey.
During the exhibition, the Dublin Arts Council gallery will be activated with creative prompts, sensory activities and contemplative practices inspired by the nature of snails.