Mural unveiled commemorating Manx poet

Josephine Kermode published her poems under the name 'Cushag' in the early 1900s

A new mural's been unveiled in Ramsey which celebrates one of the Island's great poets.

Supported by a grant from Culture Vannin in honour of the Year of the Manx Language, the artwork celebrates Cushag, and is located near to the place she lived.

It was painted by Ramsey-based illustrator, Jo Davies, and is around five metres high.

The mural can be found at the end of Auckland Terrace, opposite the little Co-op.

Cushag was the name under which Josephine Kermode published her poems, plays and stories 100 years ago. 

She was born just two doors down from the mural – where a plaque can now be found – in 1852. 

Cushag published her first book of poems in 1907 and was immediately hailed as the successor to the crown of Island’s foremost poet, following T. E. Brown’s death. 

Professor Jo Davies, illustrator, author and academic, says: "It was important for me to make an artwork that wasn't just a picture to decorate a wall but to celebrate, and literally elevate a Ramsey born woman who made an important contribution to Manx culture. 

"If, like me people, passing don't understand the Manx words I hope that they will appreciate them as things of beauty and over time begin to recognise and connect to them as part of their lives."

James Franklin, Online & Educational Officer at Culture Vannin, says: "In confidently placing Cushag, her poetry and the Manx language at the centre of it all, this piece by Jo Davies empowers us to connect to one of the Island’s great poets whilst tying us to the treasure of the Island’s language and the sense of place."

A plaque will soon be added, with a QR code leading to more information and recordings of the poem in English and in Manx.