Third Biosphere Artist in Residence announced

Manx Wildlife Trust (MWT) have proudly announced the appointment of Isle of Man-based sonic artist, Amy Howse, as the third Biosphere Artist in Residence. This year-long role, developed in partnership with UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man and funded by the Isle of Man Arts Council, commenced earlier this month.

Amy’s residency follows in the footsteps of previous artists Clare Payne and Ali Hodgson, with a focus on connecting new audiences to the Island’s rich natural heritage through the medium of art. By blending sound and nature, the programme aims to inspire individuals of all ages and backgrounds to engage with Manx culture, the arts, and the environment, encouraging collective action to protect and celebrate the Island’s natural beauty.

Amy’s background as a sound artist and sound therapist enables her to use sound to deepen our connection with nature in a way that both complements and differs from traditional visual art forms. Her approach offers an immersive experience that engages the senses beyond sight alone. Through her residency, Amy is seeking to foster sustainable wellbeing by using sound to help individuals experience the vibrant, unseen dimensions of nature—reminding everyone that personal wellbeing and the health of the Biosphere are intricately intertwined.

The Isle of Man has long been recognised for its strong cultural identity and deep connection to its unique heritage, community, and environment. Few places offer such an intimate link between society, the natural world, and economic sustainability. The Island’s stunning landscapes and seascapes have been a source of inspiration for creative communities and are cherished by both locals and visitors alike.

The Biosphere Artist in Residence programme plays a key role in promoting a vision for a sustainable future for Ellan Vannin, by fostering a closer relationship between people and nature while highlighting the distinctiveness of Manx culture. This initiative reinforces the Island’s image on the national and international stage as a place where culture and nature are integral to its identity.

Clare Barber MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, and Vice-Chair of UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, said: “I am delighted to see the Biosphere Artist in Residence programme thriving. This partnership with Manx Wildlife Trust and the Isle of Man Arts Council not only highlights the importance of protecting our environment but also demonstrates how art, in its many forms, can contribute to building a sustainable and resilient future for our community.

“I am sure that Amy’s work will bring a fresh perspective, using the power of sound to connect people with the environment in exciting and thought-provoking ways. Her work allows individuals to experience the richness of our biodiversity through soundscapes and audio art that engages the senses in a manner that other creative outlets cannot.”

Mrs Sarah Maltby MHK, Chair of the Isle of Man Arts Council said: “The Isle of Man Arts Council are once again delighted to offer continued funding support for Manx Wildlife Trust’s Biosphere Artist in Residence and congratulate Amy on her appointment. This residency is now firmly established in the Island’s creative community, offering a unique and valuable experience for artists, furthering collaboration between the Isle of Man Arts Council, Manx Wildlife Trust and UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man whilst championing arts and culture as fundamental to our wellbeing and sense of place.”

Amy Howse, MWT Artist in Residence said: “I am absolutely delighted to begin this Residency with Manx Wildlife Trust; using the transformative power of sound to deepen people's connection with the natural world is truly a dream come true for me. It is an honour to collaborate with Manx Wildlife Trust and UNESCO Biosphere, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Isle of Man Arts Council for their generous support in making this vision a reality."

Leigh Morris, MWT CEO said: “It’s wonderful that Amy has become our third Artist in Residence and that this is now becoming a part of the Manx culture. I sat next to Amy at a Mental Health First Aid course in January this year, I was very impressed with her and hoped we might get the opportunity to collaborate with her on future sound projects. Subsequently Amy applied and was selected to be our next Artist in Residence, and so I’m now very much looking forward to seeing (and hearing!) how Amy takes the residency forward.

Photography by Amore du Plessis