Friday July 17th 2026
Interlaced: A Celebration of Tattoos and Celtic Art
Where Ancient Tradition Meets Modern Expression
The Irish Cultural Center and McClelland Library invite you to Interlaced: A Celebration of Tattoos and Celtic Art, a unique event exploring the rich connections between Celtic artistic traditions and the enduring art of tattooing.
From intricate knotwork and symbolic imagery to contemporary tattoo design, this immersive experience brings together artists, tattoo enthusiasts, history lovers, and the curious alike for an evening of creativity, learning, and inspiration.
Whether you’re considering your first tattoo, adding to your collection, or simply interested in the history and artistry behind the craft, Interlaced offers something for everyone!
Who Should Attend?
Interlaced welcomes: Tattoo enthusiasts, Artists and designers, History and culture lovers, Students and researchers, Fans of Celtic art and symbolism and anyone interested in creative self-expression.
Whether you leave with a new tattoo, a temporary design, or simply a new appreciation for Celtic artistic traditions, you’ll experience a day where history, culture, and creativity become beautifully intertwined.
Come discover how the timeless patterns of Celtic art continue to inspire one of humanity’s oldest forms of personal expression. Join us for Interlaced and experience the connection between heritage, artistry, and identity. ☘️🖋️
Open house style event.
Free to all.
What to expect
Open House for Artists and Tattoo Enthusiasts
Discover a wealth of inspiration within the McClelland Library’s collection of books, manuscripts, artwork, and historical resources focused on Irish and Celtic culture.
Guests are invited to browse materials featuring:
- Celtic knotwork and decorative motifs
- Ancient Irish manuscripts and illuminated texts
- Mythological symbols and storytelling traditions
- Historical Celtic artwork and design
- Modern interpretations of traditional Irish imagery
Artists, designers, and tattoo lovers will have the opportunity to explore how centuries-old Celtic art continues to influence contemporary tattoo culture.
Create Your Own Design
Temporary Tattoo Exploration Area. Not ready for permanent ink? Experiment with your ideas in our interactive tattoo design space.
Visitors can:
- Design their own temporary tattoos
- Sketch original artwork using provided markers and supplies
- Browse a curated collection of Celtic-inspired designs
- Print temporary tattoo patterns
- Explore the symbolism behind traditional Celtic imagery
This family-friendly area offers a fun and creative way to engage with tattoo art while learning about the meanings and stories behind classic Celtic designs.
Flash Tattoo Event
Get Inked at the Castle. For those ready to make their inspiration permanent, local tattoo artists will be offering a selection of exclusive flash tattoos during the event
Participating artists will provide a limited menu of pre-designed tattoos available on a first-come, first-served basis. Whether you’re looking for a small commemorative piece or a meaningful connection to Celtic heritage, this is a rare opportunity to receive a tattoo inspired by one of the Southwest’s premier collections of Irish history and culture. Please note that all tattoo services will be provided by licensed professional tattoo artists.
Featured Lecture
Explore the fascinating history of tattooing through a special presentation by a local tattoo historian. This engaging lecture will examine the history of the art of tattoo and its connections to Celtic art and culture.