Bono, The Edge, and Gavin Friday Celebrate Irish Artist Guggi at Dublin Film Festival Premiere

Dublin, Ireland – The world premiere of Guggi, a documentary offering an intimate portrait of Irish artist Derek “Guggi” Rowen, took place at the Light House Cinema in Dublin on Wednesday, February 26th, 2026. U2 band members Bono, The Edge, and Adam Clayton were among the attendees, alongside singer Gavin Friday, director Jim Sheridan, and Dublin City Councillor Mannix Flynn.

A Deep Dive into the Life and Art of Guggi

Directed by Irish filmmaker and photographer Ian Thuillier and co-produced by Gabriella Janni, Guggi provides unprecedented access to the artist’s life, studio, and creative process. Thuillier, known for his previous documentary work including Ghost Blues: The Rory Gallagher Story and Ladies and Gentlemen, Mr. Gavin Friday, spent multiple years filming Guggi.

The film traces Guggi’s artistic journey, from his roots in the post-punk scene of 1970s Dublin with the Virgin Prunes to his later focus on sculpture and painting. His work often centers around vessels – bowls, jugs, and everyday containers – used as both motif and metaphor. The documentary explores the tension between chaos and order that defines his artistic vision.

Friends Reflect on a Shared Past

The documentary features contributions from Guggi’s lifelong friends, Bono and Gavin Friday, who share recollections of their shared upbringing in Dublin. Their memories highlight a city shaped by religion, poverty, and a vibrant creative spirit. The film delves into how a life marked by trauma finds meaning through artistic discipline and creation.

As described in the film’s synopsis, Guggi is more than a biography; it’s a meditation on the necessity of art and the power of creative expression.

The Dublin International Film Festival screening marked the film’s world premiere.