A unique feature of the art collection at Manx National Heritage is that all works are either by Manx artists or have a Manx-related subject matter. The collection of 500 oil paintings provides an eclectic visual history of our Island heritage from eighteenth-century portraits of wealthy Manx merchants to spectacular land and seascapes which are all part of our Island identity. The Manx Museum opened in 1922 with a collection – including artworks – gathered by a body of enthusiastic Museum and Ancient Monuments Trustees established in 1886. The art collection has grown through generous bequests, donations and purchases and will continue to develop as contemporary artists are moved to respond to our diverse Island culture. Eighteenth-century portraits from the brush of George Romney hang alongside the magnificent vessels of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Co., captured by leading marine artist Samuel Walters. Landscapes and seascapes capture the ever-changing mood of the Island and works by accomplished Manx artists such as John Miller Nicholson, Archibald Knox and Bryan Kneale are well represented.
If you would like to learn more about Manx National Heritage's art collection please visit iMuseum at http://www.imuseum.im/.