Rory Gallagher Statue

The statue, which is inspired by the front cover of the 1972 Melody Maker edition, was created by renowned sculptors Anto Brennan, Jessica Checkley of Bronze Art Ireland, and David O’Brien of Bronze Art Ireland, with the statue representing a significant cultural and social investment in Belfast – A UNESCO City of Music.

The statue promises to become a key landmark for visitors and a focal point for celebrating both Rory’s legacy and reflecting the Linen Quarter’s rich musical heritage, sitting alongside the districts other musical and cultural assets like the Grand Opera House, Limelight and the Punk Murals depicting another native musical legend, Terri Hooley, which LQ BID also recently supported to fruition on Great Victoria Street in 2023.

Born in Ballyshannon and raised in Cork, Rory found his “adopted hometown” in Belfast, a city that would become a cornerstone of his musical journey. It was here that Taste, his first blues-rock trio, performed their final show at Queen’s University in 1970. Shortly after, Rory began his search for a new band in Belfast, ultimately forming a group with drummer Wilgar Campbell and bassist Gerry McAvoy—musicians who helped shape his solo career.

The Rory Gallagher Statue Project Trust has been instrumental in this initiative, working in collaboration with The Ulster Hall and Belfast City Council, and with sponsorship from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, Northern Ireland Executive; ICC Belfast; Linen Quarter BID Organisation; Girvan Architecture Services; Belfast Plumbing and Heating; Barry McGivern Band; and Pipelife Ireland.