About

Established by Architect John Donnelly in 2016, Model Citizen specialises in producing finely detailed plaster cast architectural model sculptures which explore the built environment of Ireland.

During his time studying Architecture at the Belfast School of Art, John explored the medium of using plaster and concrete to cast models during the design process and as finished models.

It is in response to the increasingly digital working methods that now dominate modern Architectural practice that John established Model Citizen to reengage with the craft of Architecture by creating beautiful physical models which combine traditional casting techniques and digital technology.

All the model sculptures are individually hand cast in Belfast and carefully packaged to protect each order to ensure it arrives to you in the same condition that it left us.

Each model is made using a special non toxic gypsum/resin composite material which not only picks up a greater level of detail than standard gypsum, but is also very robust giving our models a reassuring feel of quality. The base of some models are finished with cork. The tile models have a small hole drilled in the back for wall mounting.

The models are delivered in a strong, durable double walled cardboard box nestled in a bed of recycled brown shredded paper which ensures the product is well cushioned during its journey to you.

Publications + Exhibitions

RSUA - Architects as Artists exhibition - Dec 2016

BBC Radio Ulster - The Arts Show - Feb 2017 - link to clip here

Queen's University Belfast - guest lecturer - Feb 2018

Framewerk Belfast - Solo exhibition - Sept 2018

Archdaily.com - Detailed Sculptures Capture the Beauty of Brutalism and Art Deco in Northern Irish Architecture - Mar 2019 - link to article here

University of Atypical - Mould making + casting studio - Nov 2020

Ulster Museum; NI Science Festival - Accessing Architecture - Presentation + plaster casting studio - Mar 2021