The ‘Art of Nature’, a new exhibition featuring artworks inspired by the Isle of Man’s wildlife and landscape opens at the House of Manannan on Saturday 14 March 2020 and will run over the summer months.
Curated by Manx National Heritage and Manx Wildlife Trust, the exhibition features work by prominent local artists including Dr. Jeremy Paul, Jean Buck and Gavin Carter. Over one hundred pieces of artwork will be on display, and available for purchase to raise funds for the valued work both organisations undertake to conserve the wild spaces of the Island.
Laura McCoy, Curator of Natural History for Manx National Heritage said:
“The exhibition provides an opportunity to pause, look slowly and notice the intricate detail of the Isle of Man’s wildlife and landscapes captured in the work of local artists through sculpture, canvas, silk and embroidery work. From grasses moving in the wind to the many colours of the sea, our artists have a insightful ability to capture nature in all its beauty”.
The Isle of Man’s wildlife and landscape is a huge source of inspiration for artists, with each having their own places and spaces from which they draw inspiration for their work. Many of these are cared for by the Island’s conservation charities including Manx National Heritage and Manx Wildlife Trust.
Laura continued:
“When we were approached by Manx Wildlife Trust to host the exhibition, we thought it was an excellent opportunity to showcase both the work of local artists and the way in which our organisations work together to protect and care for the Isle of Man’s natural environment.”
Manx Wildlife Trust Marketing and Membership Manager, Graham Makepeace-Warne said:
“There has always been a strong relationship between nature and art, and we are thrilled to be celebrating the Island’s wildlife and wild places through this medium. I have been amazed by both the standard and variety of work submitted for the exhibition.
There is clearly a lot of artistic talent in the Isle of Man. It’s important for Manx Wildlife Trust that people understand and care about our wildlife so we hope that this exhibition will inspire people to get out and enjoy the wonderful Manx landscapes and wildlife featured.”
The Art of Nature is on display at the House of Manannan from 14 March 2020 to 13 September 2020. Admission to the exhibition is free.
Donations received in the exhibition gallery will be attributed to Manx Wildlife Trust and also the Manx National Heritage Biodiversity Fund, a charitable fund managed by the Trustees of Manx National Heritage, dedicated to projects that directly benefit wildlife conservation on the Isle of Man.
ENDS
Image caption (from left to right): Laura McCoy, Curator of Natural History for Manx National Heritage, Graham Makepeace-Warne, Marketing and Membership Manager for Manx Wildlife Trust, Local artist, Jean Buck, an MWT volunteer and member of Mannin Art and local artist, Gavin Carter, with his two wood carvings submitted to the exhibition.
Editor’s Notes:
The Art of Nature is hosted as part of ‘You Exhibit’, a programme through which Manx National Heritage co-creates exhibitions and displays in partnership with community groups, charities and individuals across the Isle of Man. Further details are available at www.manxnationalheritage.im/get-involved/you-exhibit/
About Manx National Heritage
Manx National Heritage is responsible for protecting and promoting the Isle of Man’s natural and cultural heritage. It is an Isle of Man registered charity and looks after some of the Island’s most special places, spaces, archives and museum collections, making these available to a worldwide audience.
About Manx Wildlife Trust
Manx Wildlife Trust is the leading nature conservation charity on the Isle of Man with over 1200 members plus supporting local businesses. It manages 24 nature reserves covering nearly 300 acres and runs events and activities for schools, youth groups and families. Its special projects include work to bring back breeding Puffins to the Calf of Man, creating a 60-acre nature and play trail in Ramsey and a travelling ‘Wilder Future’ exhibition continues for 2020.