A striking new mural by acclaimed Irish artist Jacky Sheridan has been unveiled on Curved Street, Temple Lane, and Essex Street in Dublin, bringing the vibrant spirit of Pennsylvania to Ireland as the capital city prepares to host the Pittsburgh Steelers NFL game on 28 September 2025.
Commissioned by Visit Pennsylvania, the mural is a colourful tribute not only to the Steelers -the beloved team with deep roots in the Keystone State – but also to Pennsylvania’s rich cultural, culinary, and natural landscapes. It aims to capture the unique character of a state that offers much more than just sporting excitement.
Jacky Sheridan, an Irish artist renowned for her vibrant murals and illustrations, is celebrated for combining vivid colours with dynamic, abstract forms and figurative elements. Over the years, she has become a prominent figure in Ireland’s contemporary art scene, creating large-scale public artworks that brighten urban spaces across Dublin and beyond. Her murals, often found in creative hubs like Temple Bar and Smithfield, are beloved landmarks that reflect a playful yet thoughtful engagement with culture and community.
Drawing inspiration from the strong creative connections between Pennsylvania and Dublin, Jacky’s work for this project channels her passion for storytelling through art. Known for celebrating local identity and fostering community spirit, she sees parallels between the two places – both rich in history, vibrant in their artistic expression, and deeply proud of their sporting traditions. This mural is a vivid example of how her art bridges cultures and brings diverse narratives to life in a shared public space.
Jacky explained: “The inspiration behind my work was the quirkiness of Pennsylvania as a state – it’s full of eccentric traditions, little Mom and Pop stores, roadside attractions like giant sculptures and themed diners, and good, homely food. Also, in contrast, it has some of the most fervent and dedicated sports fans in the USA in some of its most well-known cities. I particularly love all their wonderfully unique mascots and their clear love and pride in where they’re from.
“When I approached this project, I wanted to create something that captures the electric energy of the Steelers but also celebrates Pennsylvania’s diversity – from its bustling cities and street art scenes to its beautiful countryside and deep history,” she continued.
“There are clear parallels between Dublin and Pennsylvania, especially in the way communities express themselves through art, music, and sport. For me, this mural is about that shared sense of identity and vibrancy.”
The mural features a blend of athletic imagery, urban motifs, and natural elements, designed to invite Irish audiences to discover Pennsylvania’s many layers – from iconic landmarks and culinary hotspots to scenic trails and historic towns.
Anne Ryan, Deputy Secretary of Tourism for Pennsylvania, said: “This mural is the perfect way to connect with Irish audiences ahead of what promises to be an unforgettable NFL experience in Dublin. But beyond the game, Pennsylvania is gearing up for a major year in 2026, hosting a lineup of world-class sporting events like the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and NFL Draft, alongside the USA’s 250th anniversary celebrations. We want to invite visitors from across Dublin and beyond to explore Pennsylvania as a rich, multi-dimensional destination.”
With Aer Lingus currently offering direct flights to Philadelphia, and a Dublin to Pittsburgh route also being explored for 2026, it has never been easier for Irish fans to turn the excitement of the Steelers game into a full Pennsylvania adventure – from vibrant city breaks to scenic outdoor exploration and memorable food and drink experiences.
The new Jacky Sheridan mural stands as a focal point leading up to the Steelers game this weekend, anchoring Visit Pennsylvania’s wider awareness campaign that includes digital storytelling, a consumer competition offering the chance to win a trip to Pennsylvania, and influencer partnerships designed to spark curiosity and convert interest into travel plans.
Jacky Sheridan concluded: “Art is a bridge between cultures and communities, and I’m thrilled that this mural can play a part in Visit Pennsylvania’s campaign to inspire curiosity and connection in the Keynote state. I hope it encourages people not only to discover Pennsylvania’s story through this artwork but also to experience it firsthand. It’s been a privilege to create something that brings a piece of Pennsylvania’s heart to Dublin.”
For more information, visit https://www.visitpa.com/
