As I started the 'Uncaged' artist residency at Studio Umami today, I've been busy constructing the Isle of Man Nature Journal display. Featuring my artwork from the IOMNJ map and blog, the display contains hanging pieces as well as sketchbooks, information on how to get involved and some 'Draw a Wildflower' sheets for people to take away with them. Some of the artworks are for sale and there are prints and cards for sale too, so if you get a chance please pop in! With no time to write a more extensive blog this week, I'll share some photos of the display and beautiful studio space.
It's been so lovely to get the work for the journal together in one place. I usually have artwork at home in Ramsey and at the studio at Grenaby so it's hard to get an idea of just how much there is. Of course, not all the work on the Isle of Man Nature Journal map is by me and we have work from a range of artists, including children. Everyone can represent the world around them through art and everyone will do it in a different way. One of my favourite recent finds on Facebook is Pet Portraits by Hercule, which led me to his website called Hercule Van Wolfwinkle. He draws in a very tongue-in-cheek 'ultra-realistic' style that conveys what I love about art. It's a way of expressing your view of the world and it should be fun!
We really want to encourage more people to send in their artwork to add to the map. This can be a simple sketch and certainly doesn't need to be a 'finished' piece of art (whatever that is!) We'd like to build up as many pieces as possible so the map becomes a fantastic resource for anyone teaching, learning or just interested in art and the Isle of Man.
If you're not sure how to start, why not come in and pick up some of the free 'Draw a wildflower' sheets. There are two sheets for each flower, one with step-by-step instructions and another with a photo of the flower to try your skills out on. The location of the flower in the photo is also given so you can let us know if you decide to send in your flower drawing to add to the map.
Studio Umami is such a beautiful setting and I'm really looking forward to creating more artwork there. Make sure you pop in if you can!
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