Art is at the POD. The sculptors queue outside the door in a line stretching all the way down Harcourt Street. They're ready to experience jelly moulds, thermal imaging, interactive shredded co-creations and intriguing leaf projections.
Sculptors' Society Ireland has taken over the POD in order to launch itself on the scene, complete with a new identity. The event is called "Absolut Tonic". Members are "reclaiming the person behind the practice of sculpture" with the help of vodka, we are told. It really does help to sharpen our appreciation of all things artistic.
Sculptors Christopher Murphy from Hillsborough and Paul Connell from Castlepollard in Co Westmeath observe our reactions. Brendan Earley, just back from New York and looking sharp in a pearl shirt with rubies and silver thread, watches us watching his leaf shadows shimmer on the floor. Some notice the shadow of a man in the leaves. Sinister? Yes, he says.
Artist Alan Phelan discusses the makeup of humankind with curator Anya von Gosseln from Germany, who is dramatic, like Marlene Dietrich, in a black beret and a long black leather coat. On stage Iarla O Lionaird's voice peals out a seannos air - Cogar na nAingeal.
Speaking of angelic whispers: Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology students Leeza Kane, Georgina Byrne and Carly Keegan are pleased to let the art wash over them. "It's nice to be informed," they explain enthusiastically.