The Cork artist who turned Kinsale Harbour into a beautiful 1,000-piece picture puzzle has turned her attention to O’Connell Bridge, writes Jackie Keogh.

Helen Condon is known for vibrant, colourful paintings inspired by coastal life in Ireland, as well as some of its cityscapes.

O’Connell Bridge is Helen’s third puzzle design, following the release of Kinsale Harbour in 2020, and Galway Romance in 2021.

The latest 1,000-piece design was commissioned by the global puzzle manufacturer, Ravensburger, and is now available at retailers worldwide.

The 1,000-piece puzzle of Kinsale Harbour was released in 2020.

The Ravensburger team offered Helen the opportunity to choose the subject for her latest puzzle.

With its strong history and central place in Dublin life, Helen said the iconic bridge was a natural choice.

She explained her decision saying: ‘I wanted the bridge to feel like a connector between people, movement, colour and everyday life in Dublin.’

Helen’s original painting on canvas​ brought the natural vibrancy of the bridge to life.

‘I love the colour in the buildings​, and the busyness of the buses: that constant rhythm, warmth, and energy that makes the whole scene feel alive,’ she said.

As part of the launch, the original painting went on display at Sparknet Gallery at St Anne’s Street in Dublin.