Slán Abhaile Manchán - Safe Home Manchán

In 2025, we lost an giant of Irish culture - Manchán Magan. And like so many countless others I was a huge fan. A simple Facebook post on the day of his passing swelled to nearly 70,000 views as it seemed to capture the mood and the sadness of his passing. The messages and tributes were so heartfelt that I was moved to paint this watercolour. The act of painting helped me enormously and so many people have taken it to their hearts as they did Manchán.                

A beloved guardian of the Irish language and spirit, author of classic reads like : Focail na mBan, Brehons and Brahmins, Irish Words for Nature, 99 Words for Rain and the essential Listen to the Land Speak. Manchán (meaning little Monk in Irish) often said he felt he belonged more in the next world than this one. This is the scene at Uisneach, sacred site of Ireland where his ashes ceremony took place. Here, a hushed crowd has gathered, as there's an old Irish custom, tender and unspoken, of seeing someone to the road, to see them safely on their way. 

The golden light that floods the horizon a warmth welcoming him to his next home. The reflected light on our faces symbolises the gifts he gave us. The scene is luminous, layered, alive with the possibilities of where Manchán would bring his gifts to next. The lone tree stands as Uisneach’s ancient witness in contrast to the assembly of loving friends. Manchán is being minded all the way home.

Limited edition Giclée print in A4 with 2 in border.