Sound therapist becomes third Biosphere artist

Amy Howse took on the year-long role earlier this month

A sonic therapist, who hosts outdoor meditations using sound, has been named as the Manx Wildlife Trust's next Biosphere Artist in Residence.

Amy Howse becomes the third person to take on the year-long role, which aims to connect new audiences to the island's natural heritage through art.

The position was created in conjunction with Biosphere Isle of Man and is funded by the Isle of Man Arts Council.

Ms Howse said it was a "dream come true" to use the "transformative power of sound to deepen people's connection with the natural world".

She follows in the footsteps of predecessor and graphic artist Ali Hodgson, and wildlife “artivist” Clare Payne, who was the inaugural artist in residence.

'Fresh perspective'

Ms Howe's work includes creating sound baths, both indoor and outdoor, using instruments such as gongs and singing bowls.

Vice-chairman of Unesco Biosphere Isle of Man Clare Barber MHK said it would bring a "fresh perspective" by using sound "to connect people with the environment in exciting and thought-provoking ways".

"Her work allows individuals to experience the richness of our biodiversity through soundscapes and audio art that engages the senses in a manner that other creative outlets cannot,” she said.

Arts Council chairman Sarah Maltby MHK said the residency was "now firmly established in the island’s creative community".

It offered a "unique and valuable experience for artists" allowing for further collaboration between the organisations involved "whilst championing arts and culture as fundamental to our wellbeing and sense of place”, she added.