A new temporary exhibition of artworks focusing on the changing face of Douglas will open at the Manx Museum tomorrow (Thursday 17th September 2009).
The exhibition is the culmination of many months' work by the Isle of Man Arts Council and Manx National Heritage, along with students from the Island’s secondary schools, Isle of Man College, the Prison, Hospice Isle of Man and the Stroke Association’s Brush Stroke Art Group.
From September 2008, students from each group were invited to take part in the one year project, working with a series of paintings entitled ‘The Changing Face of Douglas’ by artist Peter Hearsey.
These paintings were used as an inspiration to students to create their own images of buildings in Douglas.
Emma Callin, Arts Development Manager said, "It has been fantastic to see the artistic results that have come from the inspiration of Peter’s original work.
"We really have got a varied and interesting exhibition with many fine pieces of artwork, all produced by local students and artists focussing on the Manx urban environment.
"It is fascinating to see what individuals have noticed about the everyday buildings we take for granted."
Demolition Douglas will be an exhibition of the work produced by all those involved in the project, based on their interpretations either of the original paintings or more recent changes to the environment we live in.
As well as this work, original pieces from ‘The Changing Face of Douglas’ will also form part of the exhibition.
Katie King, Community Outreach and Learning Support Officer for Manx National Heritage, said, "The exhibition really has something for everyone.
"For those who feel the loss of Douglas’ magnificent Victorian buildings to those who embrace the new and refreshing changes to Douglas’ urban landscape.
"These dramatic changes are all beautifully represented in the exhibition through varied artistic mediums – photographs, film, watercolour, print and oil.”
Demolition Douglas will be at the Manx Museum from 17th September to 7th November 2009 (open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm). Admission to both the Manx Museum and the exhibition is free of charge.
