St. Mary’s Park housing estate on King’s Island in Limerick, Ireland, was built in the 1930’s to accommodate families who lived in overcrowded, poor quality housing. Because of its geographic location, bordered by the River Shannon, the estate is almost entirely isolated from the surrounding city – locals and residents refer to the area as The Island Field. It is the most socially deprived area in Ireland, with high levels of unemployment, addiction, and social challenges. Nevertheless, it has a strong community spirit. Over a two-year period, Eckhardt revisited the estate and became familiar with the community. In Youth of the Island Field, She portrays the lives of the young people of St. Mary’s Park and their coping skills.
