Resting on this very bench feel the weight of history. This is the John H Nicholson Bench. It’s a memorial to a remarkable Manx artist. John Hobson Nicholson lived from 1911 to 1988. He wasn’t just any painter. He was a prominent figure in the Isle of Man’s art scene.
John was self-taught. He became one of the most successful Manx painters. His work is widely known. His watercolors of the island are particularly famous. He painted landscapes. He also painted coastal scenes and maritime subjects. He worked in oils watercolors and pastels. He wasn’t limited to the Isle of Man. He also painted in Scotland Norway Venice and Hamburg.
His talent extended beyond painting. John designed Manx stamps coins and banknotes. He designed these for the Isle of Man Government. This began in 1958. After the decimal currency change in 1969 he redesigned the banknotes. He incorporated Manx scenes and Celtic borders. He drew inspiration from historic Manx crosses.
John followed in his grandfather’s footsteps. John Miller Nicholson was also an artist. John Hobson Nicholson created illuminated addresses. Three were given to George V. He made an illuminated vellum Roll of Honour. This listed members of the House of Keys from 1417 to 1933. He even designed the frontispiece showing Tynwald Hill.
The John H Nicholson Bench stands as a tribute. It’s a testament to a life well-lived. A life dedicated to art and the Isle of Man. Take a moment to appreciate his legacy. Sit on the bench. Feel the stone beneath you. Imagine the scenes he painted. The John H Nicholson Bench. A fitting memorial for a true Manx icon.