The Isle of Man Post Office is issuing a set of six stamps featuring an array of sea fish found in the diving destination. The Marine Mosaics The collection, based on the artwork of local artist Kimmy McHarrie, was launched on 7 March.
McHarrie says her art is inspired by a deep-rooted connection to the sea and a passion for conservation. “In creation Marine Mosaics, I wanted to celebrate the rich diversity of marine life found in the waters of the Isle of Man” he said. “Each mosaic tells a story of resilience and beauty, emphasizing the importance of protecting our oceans for future generations.”
His designs feature species native to Isle of Man waters, from herring (or the spoon in Manx) through red gurnard, mackerel and john dory to salmon (salmon), while the £1.28 stamp, featuring a cod (boiddagh), has been selected as Europe’s postage stamp for 2024.
Europe is the annual joint issue of stamps with a common design or theme – in this case “Underwater Fauna & Flora” – by the postal administrations of the European countries.
Isle of Man stamps cost 85p, £1.28, £1.51, £1.82, £2.31 and £2.72 and are available in a variety of formats including Set, Sheet Set and limited-edition Presentation Packs and First Day Cover.
McHarrie also created a 3m-long mosaic of basking sharks called unity. It incorporates local stone and recycled glass, and can be seen by visiting divers at Ronaldsway Airport.
Basking sharks are usually seen around the Isle of Man between May and August, when they come to feed on plankton at the surface.
Also read: The World’s Best Places to Scuba Dive With Basking Sharks
