The British Association for Irish Studies was established in 1985. In the spirit of Seamus Heaney’s haw lantern, the Association has sought to illuminate the study of Irish culture and language. It has done this through its biennial conferences, regular seminar series and newsletter, as well as through its Postgraduate Bursary Scheme and Essay Prize, which support the development of new scholarship.
The Haw Lantern
The wintry haw is burning out of season, / crab of the thorn, a small light for small people, / wanting no more from them but that they keep / the wick of self-respect from dying out, / not having to blind them with illumination.
BAIS Conferences and Events
Archiving Place & Time: Contemporary Art Practice in Northern Ireland Since the Belfast Agreement
Exhibition and Symposium, Manchester, from November 13/14 2009. Artists include: Willie Doherty, Rita Duffy, John Duncan, Sandra Johnston, Conor McFeely, Conor McGrady, Mary McIntyre, Philip Napier, Aisling O’Beirn, Paul Seawright. Critics include: Fionna Barber, Justin Carville, Sarah Edge, Megan Johnston, Declan Long. Find out more
BAIS / IES Irish Studies Seminar
BAIS and the Institute of English Studies at the University of London run a regular seminar series during the academic term, at which international scholars present their research. Find out more
Ireland-Wales Research Network, Cardiff University
Resources for Irish Studies
A collection of links to useful publications, journals, organisations and other resources on Irish Studies, including our colleagues in EFACIS .
Irish Studies Review Journal
This quarterly journal is published by BAIS on all aspects of Irish Studies. Learn more about the Journal.
Postgraduate Funding
We award Bursaries and hold an annual Essay Prize for work on Irish Studies. Learn more about our postgraduate competitions for 2010.
BAIS is supported by
