Saint Patrick Centre

The story of Ireland’s patron saint

The Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick, County Down holds the world’s only permanent exhibition dedicated to the patron saint of Ireland.

Tandem were brought on board to refresh the exhibition, by conceptualising new films and animations, family-friendly activities and reflections on the Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Creating a sense of arrival with a new vibrant exhibition entrance, we reworked the narrative content to make it more cohesive, taking visitors on a journey through Saint Patrick’s early life and captivity in Ireland. Our approach breathes fresh life into the story of the slave who became a saint, author of the first written word in this country and now a cultural icon known the world over.

With a limited budget, we used a sustainable approach by utilising existing structures and refacing them with a dynamic illustrative approach throughout all zones. We integrated new content with existing AV hardware and set design, retaining elements which were still fit-for-purpose and ensuring value for money across the project.

We invested resources in developing new animations and documentary filmsto bring the audio visual elements more in line with todays visitors expectations. These AV presentations, including an immersive 180 degree theatre presentation and a large-scale projection table in the shape of Ireland, help to illuminate all aspects of his character, life and legacy. They are available in five languages, reflecting the international audiences who come to the centre.

A new exhibition zone brings together costumes from Saint Patrick’s Day parades across the globe, along with footage of the celebrations from every continent.

Family-friendly activities and interactives ensure everyone has a chance to engage with the story of Saint Patrick, the man and the legend.

‘The new galleries offer ‘an inspiring journey across oceans, centuries and cultures.’

Dr Tim Campbell, Director of the Saint Patrick Centre