Visual Direction
The Spring Equinox and
solar eclipses

As part of St. Patrick's Festival 2021, I was commissioned by Hen’s Teeth to create a limited edition fine art print, as part of a group exhibition celebrating 6 different proverbs in the Irish language.

‘Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine’ is a proverb whose literal meaning is ‘it is in each others’ shadow that people live’, but on reflection invokes a sense of interdependence and community. It’s a favourite of the Irish President Michael D. Higgins and was one of the catalysts for the exhibition.

The concept for the poster is the Celtic Spring Equinox (the original pagan festival appropriated by the Christians) which marks the time of year when day equals night. This artwork speaks to the essence of the feast day, using the symbolism of a solar eclipse; when the Sun, Moon and Earth are in perfect, equal alignment. The proverb is placed within the format of a stamp; the simplest medium to disseminate a message to a nation.

Following the exhibition, President Michael D. Higgins and his wife, Sabina, were delivered a framed copy of the poster as a gift.

Posters are available to buy here.

Additional Credits
Product photography by Mark McGuinness