Our first Manx Language Hero
We’re delighted to introduce a new series celebrating some of the people helping the Manx language to be seen, heard and shared.
Our very first Manx Language Hero is artist and illustrator Ryan Morrison.
We’ve chosen Ryan to begin the series precisely because he isn’t a Manx speaker. Being a Manx Language Hero isn’t only about speaking the language fluently. It is about finding your own way to support it, celebrate it and help it reach others.
Through Ryan’s beautiful illustrations for Mooinjer Veggey, Manx words and stories will travel into homes, schools and little hands across the Island—and hopefully much further afield too.
Meet Ryan
I’m Ryan Morrison, and I’m an artist based here on the Isle of Man in Ramsey.
I studied Art and Design at the Isle of Man College, first completing a BTEC and then a Diploma. I then studied Illustration at Falmouth University and graduated in 2016.
I’ve always loved storytelling, and I started to explore Manx folk stories while I was at the Isle of Man College.
I had been interested in Scandinavian, Irish and Scottish folk tales, but I never really knew much about Manx folk tales outside of the Mooinjer Veggey and the Buggane.
When I began taking the time to explore our folk history, old traditions and stories, I found them fascinating. They inspired a renewed love for the place I’m privileged to call home.
I love playing with shape and character, and I’ve always loved narrative illustration. Whether I’m creating my own stories and poems or taking older, more traditional narratives and giving them my own spin, I enjoy trying new ways of working.
I use different techniques to create variety within my work. I’ve been working digitally a lot lately, but I also love painting with watercolour and acrylics, creating lino-cut prints, and drawing with pencil and ink.
Why Ryan is a Manx Language Hero
Ryan’s work gives Manx language and culture a visual world for children to enter. His characters make our stories feel lively, welcoming and relevant, helping young readers form their own connections with the language and the Island around them.
His contribution is a wonderful reminder that everyone has something to offer the Manx language. You don’t have to be fluent. You might draw, write, teach, sing, organise, encourage, or simply begin learning and bring someone else along with you.
Gura mie ayd, Ryan—our very first Manx Language Hero.
Show Ryan some love:
https://www.ryanmorrisonart.com
https://www.facebook.com/Ryanmorrisonartwork