Exhibition features art inspired by Isle of Man wildlife and landscape

‘Art of Nature’, an exhibition featuring artworks inspired by the Isle of Man’s wildlife and landscapes, opens at the House of Manannan, Peel, on 14th 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. 

More than 100 works 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.'

Graham Makepeace-Warne, Manx Wildlife Trust Marketing and Membership Manager, 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.' 

Artist, MWT volunteer and member of Mannin Art Group Jean Buck MBE said: 'The Art of Nature exhibition has given Isle of Man artists an opportunity to display all mediums of their work and show their enthusiasm to support wildlife conservation on the Island.

'Mannin Art Group was established 70 years ago with great Manx artists – including  John Nicholson and William Hoggatt portraying the countryside. Now that we are the only entire nation to boast Biosphere status, with 24 Manx Wildlife Trust nature rserves, designated marine reserves and ASSI sites, the desire to protect our natural environment has never been greater.

'Coordinating this exhibition has been a joy for me, creating awareness of the importance of protecting the Island for a Wilder Future.'

Art of Nature runs until September 2020. Admission to the exhibition is free. 

Donations received in the exhibition gallery will be attributed to Manx Wildlife Trust and to the Manx National Heritage Biodiversity Fund, a charitable fund managed by the Trustees of Manx National Heritage, dedicated to projects that benefit wildlife conservation on the Isle of Man. 

Photo - From left: Laura McCoy, Curator of Natural History for Manx National Heritage, Graham Makepeace-Warne, Marketing and Membership Manager for Manx Wildlife Trust, artist Jean Buck, a MWT volunteer and member of Mannin Art Group, and artist Gavin Carter, with wood carvings being exhibited.