Artist Presented Ogham Prints to Leaders in New York
Colleen Berry Conway gifted custom Ogham alphabet artwork to Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Cultural
Artist Colleen Berry Conway presented two custom Ogham prints to Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Mayor Zohran Mamdani on September 23, 2026. The presentation took place at the New York Irish Center in Long Island City.
Why it matters
The New York Irish Center commissioned the pieces to create a meaningful gift connecting the visiting leaders to the ancient history of Ireland. Ogham is an early medieval alphabet with inscriptions typically dating from the 4th to 6th centuries.
The New York Irish Center commissioned two custom Ogham prints for the visit. These works translate the surnames of the officials into an alphabet historically used from the 4th to 6th centuries.
The players
Colleen Berry Conway
She is the co-owner and artist of Southington-based Ogham Art and formerly served as Director of Operations for the Irish Business Organization of New York.
Micheál Martin
He is the Taoiseach of Ireland who visited New York for the UN General Assembly High-Level Week.
Zohran Mamdani
He is a New York City Mayor who attended the presentation event at the New York Irish Center.
New York Irish Center
Located in Long Island City, the center serves as a cultural hub and commissioned the commemorative artwork.
The details
Colleen Berry Conway, owner of the Southington-based Ogham Art, translated the surnames Martin and Mamdani into the ancient script. The gift was presented during the Taoiseach's visit to the city for the UN General Assembly High-Level Week.
Timeline
The 4th to 6th centuries marks the historical era of Ogham inscriptions.
The gift presentation occurred on September 23, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This project highlights the continued cultural relevance of ancient linguistic traditions in modern diplomatic gift-giving. It follows the historical precedent set by the 4th to 6th century Ogham script tradition.
The prints are part of a private commission for public officials rather than a retail collection. Readers interested in Ogham-style art can view similar works through the artist's studio in Southington.
The takeaway
Using historical scripts to honor modern figures provides a tangible connection to ancient cultural heritage. Individuals looking to incorporate heritage into gifts can explore linguistics-based art to create personalized, historically significant items.
Further reading
Learn more about local cultural events at the New York City Cultural section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Irish Central.
