PATHOS is a research project led by Dr Ailbhe McDaid which documents the development of global ethical citizenship in Irish art and writing over the past one hundred years. The project situates Irish artistic practice in a global context by considering how international conflict reach Irish shores. 

PATHOS considers how international events register in Irish cultural practice, and asks what does this indicate about changing Irish identities? Since independence, Ireland has responded to global conflict through political, military and humanitarian action. In the current context of unprecedented conflict and displacement, this timely project will deliver a fuller understanding of the significance of global conflict in shaping Irish society.

The project was established in 2024 and will run until 2028. It involves collaborations with key cultural organisations including the eminent literary magazine, The Stinging Fly and award-winning art gallery, The Glucksman. Planned activities include interdisciplinary workshops, a publicly-available digital repository, exhibitions, international conferences and multi-media dissemination.