A new exhibition is now open at the Manx Museum.
Speed and Light is a painted journey around the world-famous TT course from the perspective of Manx artist Paul Parker.
Paul was born on the Isle of Man in 1957 and, for the most part, is a self-taught artist. Although his work comprises mainly landscape paintings, motorsport has long been a favourite subject. He first started to draw and paint motorbikes as a teenager.
Paul said: ‘Speed and Light takes me back to my roots. Indeed, I started painting while I was saving up to buy my first motorcycle. This exhibition is very much a personal one.’
Exhibition curator Hannah Murphy explained: ‘Paul has taken over 2,000 photographs around the course and selected a small number of scenes to capture light and movement. The 59 paintings in Speed and Light feature a mix of landscapes and iconic TT riders.’
Paul admits his work is influenced by a love of his Island home.
‘Some are well-known views around the course, others not so much. A chance to see the world through another’s eyes. It’s that simple,’ he added.
‘Having this exhibition in the Manx Museum means a lot. I used to go in and look at the paintings when I was 17 or so. I think it’s a sense of belonging to a place, a sense of contentment. When I am out in the hills, or just out and about, I feel content and count myself very fortunate to have been born in such a place. If I can continue living and painting on this lovely Island, I will count myself a lucky man.’
Speed and Light is a free exhibition at the Manx Museum art gallery and runs from 27 May to 26 September 2022; donations are welcome.
All artwork is available to buy through the Manx Museum shop or online: https://manxnationalheritage.im/shop/.
— ENDS —
Image caption:
Joey Dunlop at Ballaugh Bridge
For further information, please contact:
James Davis Isle of Man Advertising & PR – 01624 620440
Manx National Heritage, Eiraght Ashoonagh Vannin, Manx Museum, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM1 3LY
Isle of Man Registered Charity No. 603