More than 1,000 people got down to their birthday suits this morning in Cork. The brave ones have taken part in a naked photo shoot as part of a Spencer Tunick art installation at Blarney Castle, Cork. The 'Dare to Bare' challenge took place in the wee hours this morning as part of the Cork Midsummer Festival and was photographed by the renowned US artist. Today FM's Ray D'Arcy was one of those who took his kit off and described the experience as liberating, almost spiritual, he said the crisp morning air was more flattering for the ladies private parts than it was for the gentlemen and that he was rather taken aback by the amount of people whose, "collar didn't match their cuffs."
The one criticism of participants was that the press seemed a little too close for comfort, "Well we'll see tomorrow how close they were" commented one worried lady, anxious about her nudity being splashed across a tabloid page. Many participants spoke about how natural the entire process felt and how they felt anxiety disappeared as age, size and hairiness no longer mattered and everyone was suddenly equal.
Tunick, who specialises in the celebration of the nude form, has photographed over 75 site specific related installations around the world.
In a recent interview with Hot Press Spencer said, "I'd say if you're 50-50 about doing this, if you turn it over to a 51% and actually come and do it, you won't be dissatisfied. You'll find it to be something you didn't expect. Some people find it therapeutic."
Those inspired by the willingness of Corkonians to bare all will have a second chance this weekend, as Tunick stages another installation in Dublin this Saturday, June 21 in conjunction with the Dublin Docklands Development Authority. Interested parties can apply on www.spencertunickireland.com.