A Peel teenager has become the first resident artist at St German’s Cathedral in Peel.
Clara Nathan, 18, said: ‘I am extremely proud to be given that title. Being the first is an honour and that is why I am determined not to waste this incredible opportunity.
‘I have already completed three pieces and I am currently working on another.’
Talking about how she first became hooked on art, Clara said: ‘I can’t remember a time where I didn’t paint or draw. Being from a family of four kids our parents encouraged all of us to paint and draw. Our walls are filled with old paintings and my mother has stored all of our drawings.’
Clara completed her A levels this summer and decided to dedicate the rest of summer to doing art.
‘There isn’t a place in my house that I could use everyday to do art,’ she said. ‘Only living two minutes away from the cathedral my mother thought it would be a good idea to ask them if they had a place that I could work in, so I emailed the dean.
‘They got back to me a few days later telling me that there was not a room available but I could, instead, work in the cathedral. I was given a space and named “Artist in Residence” as I will be working there throughout the summer.
‘I am hoping to create quite a few pieces this summer as this is the first time I am able to concentrate solely on what I love: art.’
Dean at the cathedral Nigel Godfrey said: ‘We anticipate this collaboration will be a very positive phase for Clara and, equally, for everyone associated with the cathedral, whether local community or visitors. We hope lots of people will come and see how things develop.’