Now in its eighth year, Arts Aid, the Manx charity which supports exceptionally talented artists and performers to develop their careers in the arts, is delighted to announce the appointment of Emma Callin to its Board of Directors.

Emma brings a wealth of experience from across the arts sector. Most recently, she served as Head of Arts and Culture with the Isle of Man Government, a role that included the management of the Villa Gaiety complex. Prior to this, she spent eleven years as Arts Development Manager working closely with the Isle of Man Arts Council. Alongside her leadership roles, Emma is also a highly accomplished performer in her own right. She will next appear as Marie, Chair of the Women's Institute, in the much-anticipated Calendar Girls, opening this May.

Emma’s deep understanding of the performing arts, coupled with her proven organisational and leadership skills, will be a tremendous asset to Arts Aid as it continues to nurture and financially support the island’s most promising artists and performers.

Speaking on her appointment, Emma said: ‘It is an honour to join the Arts Aid Board and give something back to our island community. I’m deeply attuned to the life-changing impact of the arts, and I’m passionate about helping to create opportunities for our young people to further develop their arts education.

‘The island has an impressive history of developing performers in a range of arts genres and Arts Aid has been key in providing financial aid to support them. I’m delighted to now be part of that.’

As a Board Member, Emma will help shape Arts Aid’s strategic direction, advise on funding decisions and advocate for the charity’s mission within the island’s arts community.

Chairman of Arts Aid, Mark Denton, added: ‘We are absolutely delighted to welcome Emma to the Board. Her extensive arts experience both in her career and in her personal life will be invaluable as we continue to grow our financial support for the island’s artistic talent. Emma’s appointment marks the start of an exciting chapter for Arts Aid.’

Arts Aid remains committed to championing the arts in all forms and looks forward to the contribution Emma will make in her new voluntary role.

Since 2018, 74 annual awards totalling more than £355,000 have been made to 36 Isle of Man students.

Applications for the 2025 awards programme are now open and close on 30 June 2025.

Applicants are invited to visit the website for details of the funding process and deadline dates. When submitting applications applicants should have already applied for a course at a suitable educational institution. However, when first applying it is not necessary to have a confirmed place. Further information is available from the website: www.arts-aid.im

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