Member Profile: Eric Funston

Sometimes referred to as the “Irish Chekhov,” Brian Friel is considered by many to be one of the greatest playwrights of his generation, in both Ireland and abroad. During the five decades that spanned his career, his work demonstrated not only daring artistic approaches, but also a wide range of topics addressed. From political activism to family dynamics, Friel’s plays took chances in form and content, making him a pioneer of his day. Additionally, because his plays were often set in rural towns and his career spanned over half a century, it is often remarked that his work embodied the evolution of the Irish countryside in the 20th century.

Whether you’re looking to use your Irish in real life or simply want to explore the most traditional parts of Ireland, a visit to a Gaeltacht should be on your agenda. To help you out, here’s our list of 10 must-see places in the Gaeltacht, each unique in its own way. To make it simpler, we’ve grouped them by counties.

A Gaelic tattoo is a visual tribute to a connection you feel with Ireland. Perhaps you have the Celtic culture in your blood, or you’ve visited Ireland and made meaningful memories there. It might be that you have studied the Irish language and want to celebrate what it means to you. Regardless of what brought you to this decision, here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure that you are always happy with your tattoo.