Indie-Folk Artist Alice Dudley Dives Into Manx Nature and Folklore Residency

Alice Dudley has been announced as the next Biosphere Artist in Residence for the Isle of Man, a role created by the Manx Wildlife Trust to connect more people with the island's natural heritage through art. Alice, who is both a musician and a visual artist, is the fourth person to take on this year-long position. She is known for her interest in folklore and nature, and she hopes to explore how culture and the environment are linked. In a recent photo, Alice is seen standing in a glen with a shallow stream behind her, wearing a beige cap and large glasses, looking off to the side.

As the new artist in residence, Alice plans to organize a series of outdoor workshops that will cover different art forms, including music, poetry, painting, and creative writing. She wants to encourage people to deepen their connection with nature and learn more about the stories and traditions of the Isle of Man. Alice said that she has been inspired by Manx folklore, the local language, and the island's unique stories. She believes that understanding the sense of place and how folklore ties into nature can help people appreciate the world around them.

A major part of Alice's residency will be creating a concept album, with songs inspired by Manx folklore and the island's natural beauty. She also wants to put together a book where artists can respond to each other's work, whether it's paintings, poems, lyrics, or stories. The Biosphere Artist in Residence program is run in partnership with Biosphere Isle of Man and is funded by the Isle of Man Arts Council. Alice will hold the position until October 2026, following sound therapist Amy Howse, who was the previous artist in residence. The Isle of Man has a rich tradition of artists and projects that celebrate its natural environment, such as paintings of the sea and stamps featuring local animals. Alice hopes her work will inspire others to appreciate and protect the island's heritage. If you have ideas for stories about the Isle of Man, you can reach out to the BBC Isle of Man to share them.