The techniques employed by artist Svetlana Cameron when creating her portraits of two former Speakers of the House of Keys will form the subject of an exhibition in the Tynwald Library.

 ‘Speakers’ Portraits – Techniques Uncovered’ offers members of the public a unique insight into the research and preparation behind the portraits of retired MHK David Cannan and former Chief Minister Tony Brown.

Mrs Cameron provides a description of how the composition of the paintings was determined and details, with illustrations, the step-by-step creative process. The exhibition also presents an opportunity to view the Speaker’s robes and wig at close quarters.

Russian-born professional portrait artist and Isle of Man resident Mrs Cameron was commissioned by the Office of the Clerk of Tynwald to create the two portraits in 2011 following her successful exhibition at the Sayle Gallery in Douglas and after she was selected to take part in the Royal Society of Portrait Painters exhibition in London.

Speaker of the House of Keys Steve Rodan SHK said: ‘The portraits of Mr Cannan and Mr Brown which now grace the House of Keys Chamber demonstrate Svetlana Cameron’s exceptional artistic talent and her skill in capturing both the dignity of the office of Speaker and the personality of the sitter.  It is truly generous of Mrs Cameron to share her techniques in this exhibition which offers members of the public a rare “behind-the-scenes” glimpse of the exacting creative process demanded to produce such outstanding works of art.’

‘Speakers’ Portraits – Techniques Uncovered’ will run from July 2nd to 13th in the Tynwald Library on the ground floor of the Legislative Buildings Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. (Closed July 5th - 8th).