Wall hangings that celebrate UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man have gone on show.
Mannin Quilters has created hangings depicting life in the Isle of Man's six sheadings.
The group has spent more than a year researching and crafting the hangings, which will tour four venues this winter and spring.
Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK – chairman of UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man – launched the exhibition at Castletown Civic Centre on Monday evening.
He said:
'Our UNESCO Biosphere status celebrates all that we hold dear in the Island: our green hills by the sea, our diverse nature and wildlife, our rich heritage, our abundant culture, which has shaped the way we live in the past and continues to do so today, and, not least, our strong sense of community and desire to work together to keep the Isle of Man special.
'This delightful project by Mannin Quilters brings together all the strands of our Biosphere.
'The quilters use traditional skills to create beautiful works of art such as these.
'They embody the community spirit that makes the Isle of Man so different from other places.'
Chris Eastham, Chair of Mannin Quilters, said:
'This has been an enjoyable project that has got the whole group talking and exchanging ideas as well as showcasing the amazing and varied talents of our members.'
The wall hangings can be seen at Castletown Civic Centre until 14 February (9am to 3.30pm); Jurby Health and Community Centre, hosted by Jurby and Northern Community Initiatives, from 19 to 28 February (varied opening times, see facebook/check with venue); the Hodgson Loom Gallery at Laxey Woollen Mills from 2 to 21 March (10am to 5pm) and at the Villa Marina from 24 March to 17 April (10am-8pm). Admission is free.
The Isle of Man is the only 'entire nation' UNESCO Biosphere, part of the UN body's Man and the Biosphere Programme.
For more information about UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man and follow it on facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Mannin Quilters celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
