The Creative Biosphere project was a collaboration between artists, schools and cultural organisations with the aim of inspiring creativity within young people through the Island’s UNESCO Biosphere Status.

Isle of Wight Museums and Schools commissioned the Creative Biosphere artists to produce a number of fun and creative activities for children which are available for schools and families to use for free.

The Monkton Merman

Dive into the story of the mythical Monkton Merman. Learn about the history of Ryde, the impact of people on local wildlife and natural habitats and the recent establishment of the Island’s biosphere reserve with this resource created by artist Jenna Sabine.

Download the Monkton Merman resource.

Emma Dennett’s Botanical Illustrations

Discover an album of botanical illustrations created by Emma Dennett in the 19th century in this short film by Bruce Webb. Be inspired to to explore and record the plants and flowers where you live through art or photography.

You can explore the whole album online or download a PDF of the images with a transcription of Emma’s notes.

Parachutes of Hope: a mandala activity

Take inspiration from the Airborne Lifeboat designed by Uffa Fox in about 1943 to design a colourful circular mandala using symbols and colours that inspire and represent our hopes and dreams in this activity created by artist Liz Cooke.

Download the accompanying description, template and curriculum links and further ideas.

Mythical Biosphere Beasties

Take inspiration from the mosaics at Brading Roman Villa, explore all kinds of mythical animals and think about how we care for creatures in our environment today. There are lots of creative activity ideas in this resource designed by artist Teresa Grimaldi.

Download the activity resource book.

The Brading Roman Villa Biosphere

Brading Roman Villa sits within an natural and historical biosphere. Discover more in this video created by students at The Bay school and filmmaker Bruce Webb as part of the Creative Biosphere project.

The Isle of Wight is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve – find out more.