Thomas Miller (Isle of Man) Limited (TM IOM) recently celebrated the successful relocation of its office to Samuel Harris House, St Georges Street with a Champagne and Canape Reception.
As part of the relocation project, Staff at TM IOM elected to champion a local artist to provide the paintings for the office. After researching a number of Manx artists it was Anna Clucas who drew the attention of the company.
Manx born Anna graduated from the University of Wolverhampton in 2000 with a Joint BA Honours degree in Ceramics and Printmaking. Prior to this she studied at the Isle of Man College completing an advanced GNVQ in Art and Design as well as A levels in textiles, Ceramics, Art and Design and studied for one year on the Art and Design Foundation course. In 2004 Anna discovered by chance a new love for oil painting. Speaking about her work she said “My oil paintings start with the idea of freedom and improvisation. This gives me the ability to enjoy working at will under no compulsion or restraint.”
Working in collaboration with the team at TM IOM Anna created three bespoke pieces for the Reception and Board Room. ‘The Path of the Viking’ is a calm and serene piece, perfectly chosen to situate in the reception where she sets sail to the unknown. The sister painting shows security in a number of ways as she pursues her path to greatness. The piece de resistance is the 6ft by 4ft painting, ‘Spirit of the Viking’, which hangs in the Board Room. Describing the piece, Anna commented “This painting exhibits strength as a team, the breath of spirit from the tree roots and the element of fire marks of future prevail.” A number of Anna’s other paintings can also be seen around the office.
Speaking about the project Ian Jarrett, Chairman of Thomas Miller (Isle of Man) Limited, said “The staff were keen to support and champion the talent we have on the Island. What drew us to Anna was her remarkable ability to look at things in a refreshingly different way. She uses vivid colours and bold ideas to create a unique blend of abstract and landscape. The paintings she has created for us work perfectly in the space, combining the heritage and tradition of the Isle of Man with the modern finish of the office. It has been a pleasure to work with Anna.”
Responding, Anna remarked “When Thomas Miller approached me with a commission to decorate their new office with my Art work, I was absolutely delighted. It was great fun working with the team, following their direction to fit a specific brief. Being given the opportunity to meet a cocktail of wonderful people and discuss my work at their prestigious opening night was the absolute highlight of the experience.”
-ENDS-
