Inspirational Islanders: Andrew Dowden, Artist
An Islander for over 30 years, Andrew now wouldn’t choose any other place to live. The continually changing landscapes and seascapes inspire his distinctive handmade ceramics and artwork. He became an artist whilst researching a book on Isle of Wight Pottery, ‘A Century of Ceramics’, after watching a pot being thrown on a wheel. He has co-organised several successful historical Isle of Wight pottery exhibitions and exhibited across the Island.
“Everyone says this I know, but the Island is such a special place to live; and has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2019. As Islanders we are most fortunate to benefit from so many dramatic landscapes and seascapes; I love the winter months, but even during the summer there is always a quiet place you can escape to.
My favourite place has to be Quarr Abbey. As soon as you turn off the main road, down the tree-lined drive, a calm descends. The landscaped grounds are green and leafy, and the magnificent brick church, with its unique architecture, is visible from almost every spot. There’s a farm shop, a great tearoom and, of course, there is the art gallery which has a changing exhibition every week.
There are so many beaches around the Island, each one having its own special or unique feature – but my favourite is at Osborne, followed by Brighstone beach. Both have inspired my artwork. Osborne beach is mainly sandy and surrounded by trees. The seaside café serves great coffee and scones; and it’s a great place to sit in a deckchair and relax. Brighstone beach is sandy with high cliffs, and we love walking there at sunset.
Again, there are so many great walks on the Island! A few favourites: Being an English Heritage member, walking around the grounds at Osborne at any time of year is good for my health and well-being, and it’s always inspirational for my artwork. The gentle hike up to Shanklin and St Martins Downs is another good one, and worth it for the views at the top across to Tennyson Down in one direction, and the open sea in the other.
The Island has such a creative community: musicians, artists, festivals, exhibitions, shows, theatre, but my favourite event is the annual Wolverton Manor Garden Fair. Set in the glorious Shorwell countryside, with the Elizabethan manor presiding, there’s always plenty going on, with over 150 plant and craft stalls, displays, music and activities.
If I only had an hour on the Island I would have to visit Quarr Abbey. The grounds are lovely, the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing, there’s lots to see – including the Quarr pigs – and learn about the Abbey and its fascinating history, walks and wildlife – and the coffee is great!”
For more details about Andrew’s work and upcoming events, visit andrewdowden.co.uk.
