Manx National Heritage invites you to step into the enchanting world of Manx fairy tales, myths and legends in ‘Rare Sightings and Urban Faeries’, an exclusive exhibition by illustrator Julia Ashby Smyth opening at the Manx Museum on Saturday 26 October.

Inspired by some of the most popular characters from Manx folklore, the exhibition will feature over 70 magical creatures, believed to inhabit the Isle of Man’s landscape of bogs, waterfalls and hillsides, alongside lesser-known beings inhabiting the Isle of Man’s urban world.

Studying art at Ramsey Grammar School and North Staffordshire Polytechnic, Julia Ashby Smyth is a Manx illustrator who is at the heart of the Island’s art scene as curator of the Hodgson Loom Gallery at the Laxey Woollen Mills. Her distinctive illustrations are well known and much loved, appearing across the Island through many local commissions.
Working as an illustrator for over 40 years, Julia Ashby Smyth’s work has featured on Isle of Man stamp collections, coins and in well-known publications, including the new edition of Sophia Morrison’s Manx Fairy Tales. In recent years she has become known as the illustrator for Fynoderee Distillery, with her unique style, imagination, and profound knowledge of all things mythical and Manx making Julia the perfect fit for bringing the Fynoderee brand to life.

Nicola Tooms, Exhibition Curator for Manx National Heritage said:

“We have transformed our gallery to showcase Julia’s work, As visitors step through the portal into the exhibition they will meet some old favourites from Manx folklore and be introduced some new characters, some more tech savvy than your average buggane!”

‘Rare Sightings and Urban Faeries’ was officially launched at a private event for invited guests at the Manx Museum on Friday evening, sponsored by Fynodoree Distillery. Original drawings, sketches, paintings and prints will be available to purchase throughout the exhibition period, offering a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of Julia Ashby Smyth’s work.

The exhibition opens to the public at the Manx Museum on Saturday 26 October until 23 February 2025. Open 9.30am – 4.30pm. Admission is free, with donations welcome.

The Faerey Cup, Graphite and white pencil