Isle of Man Post Office (IOMPO) presents a wonderful set of six stamps of both, popular and unusual species of birds selected from the world of cage and aviary as seen through the lens of photographer Luke Stephenson. The set of six stamps is to be issued on 9th February 2021.
The birds selected are new to the IOMPO stamp collection and include both common and exotic varieties and hybrids to illustrate an important aspect of bird fancying, that of creating cross breeds, both for their appearance and song.
Local designer Emma Cooke of EJC Design has created a beautiful and vibrant set of six stamps utilising the photography of Luke Stephenson, who has spent a number of years photographing the varied species of birds featured upon the stamps. This distinctive style poses the exhibited bird affront a vibrant and decorative background, contrasting with the colour of the bird’s plumage. The following species are featured upon the stamps; The Fife Canary, Gouldian Finch, Budgerigar, Redpoll Hybrid, Paradise Tanager and the Diamond Sparrow.
Jerwood Photography Prize winner Stephenson’s work has been published in a variety of publications including The New York Times Magazine, The Guardian, Dazed & Confused, Foam, Art Review and Wallpaper. He has exhibited his photographs most notably at The Photographer’s Gallery in London and has published three books to date: An Incomplete Dictionary of Show Birds, 99x99s (about the classic ice cream) and The English Rose.
Photographer Luke Stephenson, said: It’s a great honour to have my work displayed on stamps and be among many great artists that have done so in the past. It seems very fitting that my images of birds will now literally be flying around the world.
Maxine Cannon, General Manager Isle of Man Stamps & Coins, said: It’s been a pleasure working with Luke on this stamp collection. The stamps give a glimpse into the world of show birds and his stunning photographs meticulously capture the beauty of these charming creatures. We’d also like to thank Roy Howarth, Andy Sykes and Tina Jauncey for their expert assistance in the creation of this unique stamp issue.
The Show Birds collection is available as a Set and Sheet Set, Presentation Pack and First Day Cover. For further information, please visit www.iompost.com/showbirds.
-ENDS-
For images of our stamps please visit the Media Centre
Technical Details
Text: Luke Stephenson, Roy Howarth,
Images: Luke Stephenson
Design: EJC Design
Printer: Cartor
Process: Offset Lithography
Colours: 4 colour
Paper: 110 gms PVA gummed
Perforations: 13 per 2cms
Stamp Size: 42 x 28mm
No. of Stamps: 6
Format: Sheets of 20
Date of Issue: 9th February 2021
Contact Us
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Isle of Man Stamps & Coins, PO Box IOM, Isle of Man Post Office, Douglas, ISLE OF MAN, IM99 1PB
