Isle of Man Guide

On 14th April, Manx National Heritage is staging an exhibition: ‘Eric Houlgrave – For the Love of It’, at the Manx Museum.

Eric Houlgrave taught at the Kensington Road Art School and the Isle of Man College of Further Education for 30 years. Although best known as a teacher, Eric was also a prolific artist. A true Renaissance man, Eric had a lifelong passion for art in all its forms – from music and films, to painting and pottery. This exhibition will show a sample of the broad range of his artistic talents.

Visitors to the exhibition will be able to view Eric’s watercolour paintings, calligraphy, pottery and cinematography. Amongst the items on display will be an illuminated address presented to Sir Charles Kerruish; an award winning film and a stunning variety of Manx scenes depicted in watercolour. Visitors will be able to listen to and read touching memories of Eric provided by former students and colleagues. Budding artists will also be able to try their hand at calligraphy.

Manx National Heritage is delighted to be staging the first exhibition of Eric Houlgrave’s work on the Isle of Man.

Katie King and Nicola Tooms, MNH Assistant Curators, said:

“Through our research for this exhibition we came to realise what a true inspiration Eric was to his students, and the knock on effect this had upon the Manx art scene. Because of this we decided it was important to explore these aspects of his character in the exhibition. What mattered to Eric was the journey of creativity. He taught that you should ‘create for the love of it’.”

Manx National Heritage has worked closely with Eric’s daughters, Deborah Taubman and Sara Bryant, and his widow Stephanie Houlgrave to develop this exhibition.

Eric Houlgrave – ‘For the Love of It’ opens at the Manx Museum, Douglas on 14th April 2006 and runs until 24th June 2006.

The Manx Museum is part of the award-winning Story of Mann and is open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. Admission is free.

23rd March 2006

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