Year of Our Island

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Isle of Man Post Office is delighted to present this issue of ten stamps to mark a very special year in which we celebrate ‘our Island’ as a special place to live and work.

The Year of Our Island 2018 was inspired and informed by the recent UNESCO World Biosphere status awarded to the Island in 2016. Our ‘man and the biosphere’ status celebrates our living land and seascape, and the people living and working within, enjoying and supporting that environment. It is about balancing a vibrant community, valued environment and resilient economy, and remaining a special place for people and nature.

Chairman of Year of Our Island, Minister for Policy and Reform, Chris Thomas MHK (Member of the House of Keys) writes: ‘We know that our Island is a special place for people and nature and that was recognised by UNESCO which designated the Isle of Man as the first ever island-nation in its entirety to be awarded the status of world biosphere region. This year, 2018, will bring opportunities for us to value not only our environment but also our culture, heritage and community, and to remind ourselves how these enhance our quality of life and our health and well-being.

It is also an opportunity for us to take care of our environment and our community by ensuring the impact we have on our Island is positive.

This year is about championing existing events, activities and the sense of community that already exists on our Island, encouraging people to explore more, do more and give more. We want people to make the most of the things that already exist, whether it’s visiting our striking glens and beaches, joining in with our community groups, taking part in sporting and cultural events or volunteering time to maintain, support or enhance our natural and built environment’

The Isle of Man has much to be proud of and this year is an opportunity to celebrate the many positive aspects of living and working on our Island.

Isle of Man-based professional photographer Simon Park has spent nearly 40 years photographing the Island and we have selected images that we hope convey the variety of experiences and contrasting scenery that Manx residents have at their disposal: the ten images range from ancient stones to sports festivals.

Simon currently lives and works in the Isle of Man as a professional photographer specialising in fine art and commercial photography…

‘The Isle of Man is a place I have lived most of my life. What does it mean to me? A place of landscape, art, culture, community and rich heritage. It’s also the place I started and developed my love and passion… photography! At first a hobby alongside my job as a graphic designer, it has gradually taken over; commercial work, but also personal projects in my favourite style – black and white.

The Isle of Man is centre of the British Isles. It has been also the centre of my photographic world providing me with many photo opportunities and varied subject matter. Even in the depths of winter the gales and crashing waves have a wonderful dynamism and energy that’s wonderful to capture.

The Island has been kind to me allowing me to earn a decent living as a professional photographer, photographing weddings and commercial projects, but for my personal work I always seem to gravitate back to the landscape and culture. I never tire of the Islands’ rugged coasts, wide open spaces and stone circles and usually no more than a short drive away…
Sometimes I have taken living and working on the Isle of Man for granted. I shouldn’t. It’s only now in more recent years that I have really begin to fully appreciate its wonderful qualities. This year, 2018 is a great time to truly reflect on my Island. A great place to live… still lots to explore!’

  • 16.04.2018
  • Isle of Man Advertising
  • Cartor
  • Offset Lithography
  • 4 Colours
  • 31.7 x 31.7mm