LOCAL ART COLLECTIVE RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM MANX LOTTERY TRUST FOR COMMUNITY ART TRAIL

The Creative Network has received a grant of £25,000 from the Manx Lottery Trust to support the continuation of its Silverburn Art Trail.

The Creative Network, a not-for-profit collective of over 70 Isle of Man based artists, was founded in 2012, with the aim of establishing an inclusive community for local artists to raise the profile of the Isle of Man’s art scene, both nationally and internationally.

The organisation’s Silverburn Art Trail which was first established three years ago, features locally created permanent and temporary public art and follows the Silverburn river and the established Herring Way from Castletown to Ballasalla. The trail, which is partially formed across various sites, looks to celebrate the Island’s unique biosphere environment. It features a range of art works from street art in Castletown, to sculptural pieces in the countryside, and ephemeral pieces made from natural materials which will disappear over time.

Eve Adams, Creative Network Committee Member, said: ‘The Creative Network are overjoyed to have received a grant of £25,000 from the Manx Lottery Trust. Funding will allow us to pull together existing sites with new installations to create a robust and cohesive art trail for the enjoyment of the public. The art trail will also provide the backdrop for a planned education programme of workshops, demonstrations, and activities, encouraging the public to enjoy the outdoors, spend time together and view their local surroundings in a new light.

‘The art trail will become a permanent arts amenity for the Isle of Man, providing a unique attraction for both residents and visitors alike. The Island has the perfect natural backdrop for the art trail, and our aim is to make a truly special and peaceful place which will benefit the physical and mental health of individuals and communities across the Island.’

Sarah Kelly, Chairman of Manx Lottery Trust, said: ‘The Manx Lottery Trust are pleased to support the Creative Network’s innovative Silverburn Art Trail. The organisation’s education programme, which will run alongside the project, is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to participate in the art trail, engendering a sense of pride, ownership and belonging to our beautiful Island.’

To find out more about the Silverburn Art Trail, visit: www.creativenetwork.im/art-trail

This grant is from Manx Lottery Trust’s Community Awards Programme. Manx Lottery Trust has been delegated to distribute National Lottery money from The National Lottery Community Fund. To find out more, visit: www.mlt.org.im