Irish literary voices showcased at the European Parliament
A vibrant new exhibition in Brussels highlights twenty-four contemporary Irish authors through striking portraiture and translated works. This cultural initiative celebrates the power of storytelling to bridge borders during Ireland's 2026 Presidency of the Council of the EU.
The European Parliament in Brussels recently unveiled 'Súil Amach / An Outward Eye', a landmark exhibition celebrating the depth and diversity of modern Irish literature. As a central pillar of the Cultúr 2026 programme, the project marks Ireland's current Presidency of the Council of the European Union by highlighting the writers who define our contemporary cultural landscape.
Curated by Literature Ireland in collaboration with acclaimed photographer Conor Horgan, the exhibition features twenty-four prominent authors, including Anne Enright, Colm Tóibín, and Paul Lynch. Each portrait captures the writers in settings of personal significance, grounding their global impact in the landscapes and urban spaces that fuel their creative imaginations. The installation is complemented by a unique library of their works, translated into various European languages and available for visitors to borrow, read, and share.
Speaking on the significance of the project, Minister Patrick O’Donovan praised the initiative for fostering connection through the universal language of storytelling. By showcasing these voices, the exhibition reinforces the vital role of Irish literature in building bridges across the continent. Further details regarding the exhibition and the featured authors are available on the official Culture Ireland website.