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 or adding to your collection, Interlaced offers something for everyone!
Who Should Attend?
Interlaced welcomes: Tattoo enthusiasts, Artists and designers, History and culture lovers, 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 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 art and contemporary tattoo culture.
Family Friendly Tattoo Exploration Area
Not ready for permanent ink? Experiment with your ideas in our interactive tattoo design space.
- Design your own temporary tattoos!
- Sketch original artwork using provided markers and supplies
- 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.
Get Inked at the Castle – Flash Tattoo Event
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.
Follow our featured artists on Instagram to check out their amazing work!
@thedesertdove
@greensparrowtattoo.co
@parksart._
@miachristattoo
Mingle with the Wolfies!
Starting at 6 pm our good friends Tipper and Riley will be joining us for this event! Don’t miss a chance to meet these gentle giants and maybe they can inspire your next tattoo!
Make sure to check out our new program Wolfie’s Tales! Spend some time reading to a gentle giant therapy dog, an Irish Wolfhound! Bring your own book or borrow one of ours and read to a Wolfhound! This is a free program for kids and adults.
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3:30pm – 5:30pm the third Friday of each month *excluding August and holiday or other closures