Gateway Youth Project mural unites Irish and Choctaw nations

A new art and heritage collaboration, led by Athlone-based artist Mimi Seery, participants of the Gateway Youth Group and its youth officer Shelly Dunican, has culminated in the unveiling of a mural at St. Mary’s Hall.

Located in the former Athlone Workhouse building on Northgate Street, the mural is part of an ongoing project that uses the arts to explore the histories of the Athlone Workhouse, marking the 180th anniversary of the beginning of the Great Hunger (An Gorta Mór, 1845–1852).

Titled “Release the Past – Re-write the Future,” the mural was inspired by the youth group’s desire to learn about and acknowledge the histories of the Athlone Workhouse while envisioning a brighter, more inclusive future. Every brushstroke tells a story, weaving together themes of healing, connection, and hope.

The mural’s backdrop features a Celtic trinity shape intertwined with a heart, inspired by Eternal Heart, a sculpture created by Choctaw artist Sam Stitt. Unveiled in Oklahoma last August, the sculpture honors the deep and lasting bond between Ireland and the Choctaw Nation—a connection that began with the Choctaw Nation’s extraordinary act of generosity during Ireland’s time of desperate need. This gesture of solidarity has created an enduring relationship between the two cultures.

The Eternal Heart sculpture was intentionally positioned to face Ireland. Its striking design left such an impression on the group that it became a central element of the mural. Now, the heart gazes back from the heart of Ireland, in Athlone, completing a circle of mutual respect and friendship.

At the centre of the mural stands Airmid, the mythological Irish goddess of healing. Initially included to heal the suffering of those who lived in the workhouse, Airmid’s role expanded as the mural evolved. Symbols of the Choctaw Nation, including their Seal, began to emerge, symbolising a shared journey of healing ancestral wounds. With one arm, Airmid soothes the pain of the past; with the other, she guides viewers toward a hopeful future—from famine to flourishing.

Given the mural’s strong connection to the Choctaw Nation, the group reached out to share the work with them.

The response from Clare Young, Public Arts Manager of the Choctaw Nation, was deeply moving: “What a wonderful representation of humanity, connection, and freedom. I personally feel that the message the youth has shared through this art is very powerful. Congratulations to everyone involved on a very successful final outcome! Yakoke (thank you) for remembering the gift.”

Now a permanent fixture in the Gateway community hub, the mural serves as a powerful reminder of art’s ability to heal, unite, and inspire.

This project could not have been possible without the kind and generous support from Gerry Callaghan of New Horizon Athlone and Westmeath County Council Arts Office.