The New Carnival Company proudly announces the launch of the IW Dark Skies Art Exhibition, (19th March to 19th April) in the Windows of Independent Arts Newport. A collaborative project showcasing the creative talents of young individuals from The Island Learning Centre, Isle of Wight College, and Independent Arts Youth Hub.
This exhibition, in partnership with New Carnival, builds upon the success of last year’s IW Dark Skies festival, aiming to raise awareness about the Island’s unique dark skies and their significance for both humanity and the environment.
Public vote
A public vote for the most popular artwork will see three winners receiving a cash prize. The prize money has been kindly donated in by John Langley, former chairman of the IW Countryside charity, in memory of Ann Langley.
Ann had great sentiment for the campaign to get the Islands dark skies protected and recognised as an International Dark Skies Park.
Array of artworks inspired by celestial skies
The exhibition features an array of artworks inspired by celestial skies. Among the highlights is a giant ‘Miss Mitchell’s’ comet willow sculpture, a tribute to Maria Mitchell, the pioneering American astronomer whose discovery of a comet in 1847 earned her international acclaim.
This large piece, created by students from The Island Learning Centre, pays homage to Mitchell’s legacy and her family’s ties to the Island, who originated from Brighstone.
The comet was created in workshops that were part of Independent Arts Wavelength project which has been running in schools across the Island offering Island children opportunities to explore science through creativity.
Fine artworks themed around Dark Skies
Additionally, students from Isle of Wight College’s Art and Design Level 2 programme present individual fine artworks themed around Dark Skies.
Their thoughtfully crafted pieces not only showcase artistic prowess but also convey the crucial role of dark skies in promoting health and well-being, both for humans and the natural world.
Carly Clark, IW College tutor, said:
“The students were so inspired by the theme of Dark Skies and worked independently to produce a diverse range of outcomes.
“To have their work displayed at Independent Arts for the exhibition is such an honour and also a fantastic experience.”
3D willow five-pointed star sculptures
The Independent Arts hub group of young people contribute to the exhibition with their 3D willow five-pointed star sculptures, adorned with colourful decoration and intricate drawings.
Exploring space travel and finding out about the Island’s history as a space rocket testing site in the atomic 1950s and 60s.
Show your support
Please support the talented young people involved in this exhibition and, in turn, the International IW Dark Skies Park Bid. By participating and voting, you can affirm the importance of preserving dark skies, especially in the face of increasing light pollution.
The Island’s dark skies are among the darkest in Europe, and everyone’s support is crucial in our efforts to protect and celebrate them.
To find out more about the exhibition please contact [email protected], or visit the website, or call (01983) 716 095.
To discover more about IW Dark Skies, see the document below.
News shared by Hannah on behalf of New Carnival. Ed
