St Patrick Centre to host three-day Celtic event with artists from around the world

St Patrick Centre to host three-day Celtic event with artists from around the world

3 May 2023

CELTIC artists and scholars from as far away as Hawaii are heading to Downpatrick for an international Celtic art conference this summer.

Inspired by the ancient Book of Kells — written and illustrated by Christian monks in the eighth century —  these modern artists will share how they recreate Celtic art in a modern way across different cultures.

Hamish Burgess, who is of Scottish descent and is based in Maui, will showcase some special prints on St Patrick during the three-day conference at The Saint Patrick Centre, the world’s only permanent exhibition to Ireland’s patron saint, from June 8-10.

Burgess has promoted Celtic culture in Hawaii for more than 20 years through his original prints and illustrations, as well as hosting and producing a weekly Maui Celtic Radio show.

His work has appeared on books, and album covers, including the Irish Rovers, and he was a featured artist in the Mick Fleetwood Gallery in Lahaina, Maui.

“I am humbled to be included in this conference among stellar artists and archaeologists from around the world, who share a passion for Celtic art and beauty,” he said.

“I am looking forward to this three day event in Downpatrick — a stunning setting to meet others who are interested in art and history and a bit of craic.

Dr Tim Campbell, Centre Director, said it was an honour that Downpatrick had been chosen to host the second international conference, the inaugural conference having taken place in 2019 in Andover, New York.

“There are artists coming from California, Illinois and Michigan as well as Scotland, the Isle of Man and our own island,” he remarked.

“There has been a real flowering of Celtic art and scholarship. We will see images of Celtic art expressed in silver, ceramic, painting, stone, wood, textiles – and even using computer technology.

“Among the scholars is Dr Megan Henvey who will explore some of the history of the High Cross not just in Ireland but further afield.”

He continued: “This is a very lively conference which will include not just The Saint Patrick Centre but outings to some of the ancient Celtic and Christian sites in County Down including Inch Abbey, Struell Wells, Down Cathedral and Nendrum monastery.

“Among the highlights will be a carving demonstration by Belfast-born artist Jeff Fitzpatrick Adams and a great opportunity to meet and mingle with the artists.”

Mr Fitzpatrick Adams said he was taught wood carving in New Zealand by a Maori master-carver and has been carving Celtic designs ever since.

“I will be working on a Celtic serpent/eel ampersand adapted from the Book of Kells,” he remarked.

Claire Torrens, Heritage Officer for The Saint Patrick Centre, said details and tickets for the conference are available via Eventbrite.

“This will be an amazing blend of Celtic Art and modern imagination,” she continued.

“These artists are taking art from a thousand years ago and adding their own take. This is a wonderful way to learn about our heritage and to appreciate the beauty of creation.

“We have already had a lot of interest and this will also be a great social occasion with an evening meal and show. We appreciate all the support from our sponsors including Tourism NI, Walker Metalsmiths and Denvir’s Coaching Inn.”

The Saint Patrick Centre recently celebrated the launch of its new exhibition, re-imagining St Patrick’s story with the latest in high-tech design.