A Celtic mosaic created to mark Tynwald Day now has pride of place in Douglas Town Hall.
To mark a ‘take part in art’ day to coincide with the Isle of Man’s national day two years ago Elaine Edge worked with schoolchildren from all over the Island to create the mosaic.
The eight feet by four feet piece, which is in the shape of a Celtic cross, drew inspiration from the work of renowned local artist Archibald Knox and commemorated what would have been his 150th birthday.
It remained at Elaine’s home following its completion.
A Senior Education Support Officer at Rushen Primary School, Elaine mentioned the mosaic to Tim Crookall MLC, then Minister for Education and Children, and DEC Members Bill Malarkey MHK and Geoff Corkish MBE MLC when they visited the school.
She suggested she would love the mosaic to be somewhere the public could see and admire it.
The then Minister and his officers set about seeking a location – and Councillor David Christian MBE JP, Leader of Douglas Council, stepped in, offering to display it in the foyer of the Town Hall in Ridgeway Street.
Councillor Christian said: ‘The Celtic cross is a powerful symbol of the early history of the Isle of Man, renowned across the world for its rich and diverse history. It is fitting that the Island’s capital should become home to this mosaic cross, its design inspired by one of the town’s most celebrated artists.
‘The work is not only emblematic of the Island’s past, but also of the strong sense of community among the children who created it. The Council is pleased to receive this cross which will serve as a potent reminder to all who visit Douglas Town Hall of our Viking ancestry and the enduring traditions of Tynwald Day.’
Elaine said: ‘It is important the mosaic is publicly displayed so they can see the work schoolchildren put into it. I am thrilled it has found a permanent home at Douglas Town Hall.’
Photo shows Council Leader David Christian MBE JP extreme left, Elaine Edge, Bill Malarkey MHK, Minister for Education and Children Graham Cregeen MHK, DEC Member Geoff Corkish MBE MLC and Tim Crookall MLC
