In a momentous unveiling, the national art gallery at the Manx Museum has brought forth a collection of artworks that have long been shielded from public view. Following extensive conservation efforts, several masterpieces are gracing the gallery’s walls for the first time.
Curator Katie King shed light on this significant moment, revealing that nearly 40% of the 133 artworks on display have either been hidden away for over two decades or have never seen the light of a gallery before. King elaborated, “These artworks aren’t just pieces in a frame ready for display. Our collection is a rich tapestry of fine art, intertwined with naïve and folk art, sketchbooks, and singular sheets crafted by everyday individuals. It’s a testament to our social history.”
The gallery, a culmination of a century-long journey, has always been a beacon of Manx inspiration, celebrating pieces that either hail from the Isle of Man or are by Manx artists. But this recent revamp, King emphasized, is a conscious effort to spotlight previously concealed gems, many of which were sidelined due to their fragile state.
Notably, the restoration process witnessed a blend of local expertise and international collaboration. While select oil paintings journeyed to the UK for specialized restoration, a significant portion of the conservation was undertaken in-house at the museum. Conservators Christopher Weeks and Emma Le Cornu spearheaded these efforts, meticulously evaluating each artwork’s condition and preparing them for the limelight.
Weeks shared insights into the restoration challenges, noting, “Some artworks were in impeccable shape, but the deteriorated frames posed a challenge, necessitating intricate repairs, gilding, and strengthening.” For pieces devoid of frames, Le Cornu’s expertise was paramount. She elaborated on the delicate task of mounting artworks, especially highlighting the unique challenge posed by World War Two internment art crafted on newspaper. “Newspaper, being inherently acidic, presented a preservation conundrum. Yet, with care and precision, we’ve managed to showcase these poignant pieces,” Le Cornu remarked.
A notable addition to the revamped gallery is a specialized dark room, designed to illuminate for a brief 90 seconds upon entry. This innovative feature has enabled the display of exceedingly delicate paintings, including the aforementioned World War II artworks.
However, recognizing the constraints of physical display, the Manx Museum has embraced the digital age. King revealed that approximately 70% of the art collection is accessible online via the iMuseum platform. “Our mission is to make art accessible. While we cherish the physical displays, we understand the importance of digital accessibility, ensuring our artworks remain discoverable to all,” she affirmed.
As the Manx Museum continues its commitment to preserving and promoting the region’s artistic heritage, this latest exhibition stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Manx artistry and the relentless pursuit of preserving cultural legacies for generations to come.
