CULTURE
WORDS | Helen McKenna
Ellan Vannin’s Mission to promote the Manx Arts
FASHIONFILMTVTHEATRE Culture is an important aspect of what brings people in different regions of the world together in order to reflect their beliefs, values and understanding of identity, and place in society. Whilst many would assume that living in an Island would limit creativity to a certain extent in terms of access to creative industries, the Isle of Man is set to prove that there is plenty of talent growing in the middle of the Irish Sea. Island of Culture 2014 is a year-long government funded initiative to engage people in the cultured environment surrounding them, such as a series of exhibitions held for photographers and artists, poetry readings and theatre in all sorts of environments and music and dance concerts.
All in all, the year will reflect the true spirit of the Island’s identity as a place which enables its artist’s “the freedom to flourish”:
“The Isle of Man is a land of possibility and businesses will find the right environment in which to reach their full potential.” The Island is making a conscious effort to include all regions in their programme this year; with the aim to promote the use of creativity in schools and show appreciation for what there is on offer. This is perhaps the most important aspect of the year-long celebration – to encourage young people to become more actively involved in the creative arts, not only for their leisure, but to enable them to learn the life skills which are important in order to achieve what they want. Communication skills are essential in almost all types of careers, especially in the finance sector, which is the main industry that thrives in the Island. Theatre in education helps to develop confidence, team working skills, an ability to discuss ideas thoroughly and produce work which takes time and planning to achieve a successful production.
Creativity is a vital part of a child’s development, in order to be able to express themselves and become more appreciative of the time they spend recreationally and come back to their studies refreshed. Perhaps another vital aspect of the Island of Culture 2014 is the opportunity to express to the rest of the world what exactly Manx identity means. The Island is unique in that we do not let anyone forget where we are from, as we have already proved in the likes of Mark Cavendish, Peter Kennaugh, Davy Knowles and Samantha Barks. There is a new generation of young people who have developed their craft and are already pursuing their passion in their chosen creative field (see across). An important part of being Manx is remembering where you came from and they have made the most of their time in the Island to appreciate what experiences they have had. With preparations already underway for the year, 2014 is set to boost the Island’s national identity and share the vision to celebrate culture in all forms and inspire. Visit www.Islandofculture.im for more information on upcoming events.
“As soon as I knew what a fashion designer was, it was what I wanted. A career where you can create a fantasy world with fabrics, textures and pallets. You can create the identity of whoever you want to be. I’ve always used fashion as a beautiful escapism. I want my ladies to feel that when they wear UNNYE. It’s very surreal seeing my designs on artists like Florence Welch and Natasha Khan, however, these moments establish this is the career for me. I can’t say enough wonderful things about the Isle of Man College Art Foundation Course. Billie Saade taught me to challenge the conventional but remain desirable to the client and encouraged me to stay true to myself. I lived in London before moving back to the Island and built up a strong network of contacts. I have a PR company that look after my brand in London. I’m lucky I can run UN-NYE from anywhere with an internet connection. I don’t see why the Island would have restrictions. It’s all about self-promotion. The Island has an abundance of talented eccentrics! That’s what I love the most about our weird, wonderful little Island. I’m absolutely snowed under, but couldn’t be happier! I’m working on custom pieces for some incredible clients: Karen O from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs to Warpaint, Neko Case, the Dum Dum Girls and Chelsea Wolfe. I’m also in talks with Arcade Fire and Cat Power’s styling teams about festival season pieces. Watch this space!”
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