Arts Council Member Jade Boylan tells us about her role within the Isle of Man Arts Council

Tell us about your Creative Journey?

I’m a local artist and designer, I work freelance full time from my home near Ballaglass; taking on commissions from local and international clients as well as running my online shop the ‘Candy Doll Club’ selling products featuring my designs.

Why did you apply to be on the IOM Arts Council?

They put a call out for a visual artist to join the council and despite being only 28 at the time, I had already worked within the creative industries on the island for a decade and felt that I had the necessary knowledge and experience for the role. I’m 31 now and I like to think i’ve learned even more during my time on council so far.

What projects has the IOM Arts Council been involved with that you are most proud of?

One of my favourite arts council projects was the huge floral mural in Parliament street, Ramsey painted by Karolina Pawlowska. I love to see large scale public art around the island, that beautiful mural makes me smile every time I walk past it and i’m proud to have played a part in the decision making that resulted in that project going ahead.

Can you explain your role within the IOM Arts Council?

I chair the VisLit (visual art and literature) panel for the council and also sit on the film panel. The role mostly involves reviewing funding applications, reading screenplays and scripts, advising applicants and engaging with creatives at local arts events.

What advice can you offer to someone thinking of applying to be on the IOM Arts Council and a Culture Vannin representative?

If you have a passion for the creative arts and Manx culture, want to champion local creatives both at home and abroad and have the spare time and energy to dedicate to these two vital organizations, then definitely consider applying.