AN ARTS event sponsored by AIB Isle of Man featuring three local artists will help to raise funds for Hospice.
The exhibition consists of the work of local artists Liz Courtie, Sharon Watterson and Ben Hickey. All three are in their final weeks of studying for a Higher National Diploma in Fine Art at the Isle of Man College. The exhibition is an collection of their work in photography, painting, printing, glass, and ceramics.
As part of the exhibition Liz Courtie had wanted to raise funds for Hospice Isle of Man. Liz had attended Hospice as a day patient and credits the team at Hospice for developing and re-igniting her artistic skills.
She had also specially commissioned a beautiful piece of glasswork for Hospice which she has donated to be auctioned at their annual dinner in November. She also created two unique additional pieces of framed artwork to raise funds which will be donated to Hospice.
The exhibition continues at the Erin Arts Centre from, today (Wednesday) until Saturday (May 28) and Wednesday June 1 to Sunday June 5.
Liz Courtie was born and raised in Ramsey and now lives in Onchan. Originally she trained as a secretary but having survived breast cancer, now has a different outlook on life. As part of her healing journey she undertook art therapy at Hospice and was encouraged to apply for the Art and Design course at college.
Liz loves to work in photography, glass and ceramics and has been influenced by contemporary glass sculptor Dale Chihuly and 19th century Scotsman (with Manx ancestors) Daniel Cottier. In her first exhibition at the Erin Arts Centre she will be showing mixed glass and copper work and fragile fused glass. Her photography is emotional and thought-provoking, mixed with a little digital imagery and portrays Manx, Irish and Scottish scenes.
Sharon Watterson is a well known Manx landscape and portrait painter. She has previously studied art, design and photography at the Isle of Man College. She is influenced by ancient Celtic art, scripture, Archibald Knox and John Miller Nicholson. Her work reflects the culture and timeless beauty of the Island depicted in watercolours, oils, monoprint, ceramic and glass.
Ben Hickey was born on the Island and has aspired to be an artist from an early age. The 22 year old student has attended Castle Rushen High School, University College of Falmouth and the Isle of Man College.
His work often deals with controversial subjects. In this exhibition he uses photography to show a neglected and forgotten side to the Island. After completing his HND he intends to continue his studies by taking a BA in Fine Art.
