The exhibition title Treasured reflects precious time spent immersed in making during a challenging year and the transformation of sometimes overlooked raw materials into new and joyful artworks.
Deborah Briggs works in textiles, and for this show has created woven pieces inspired by the vivid colours of wildflowers against the greys and browns of Shetland cliffs, combined with the brilliant blue sea and bright sky. Eve Eunson is a designer maker inspired by the vernacular furniture of Fair Isle. Eve has created chairs from wood that arrived in Shetland as dunnage – material used to keep cargo in place during transportation.
Contemporary textile artist Marcia Galvin has knitted bright and playful garments incorporating unusual textures and bold colours. Creating lightsome characters and scenes from bruk found on beaches and elsewhere Lynn Ritch Bullough takes her inspiration from nature. Jeweller Esmé Wilcock is also inspired by the natural world, she is well known for her delicate creations, often featuring sea glass or cast sea shells.
The Shetland Open usually takes place every two years, with an exhibition of work by prize winners in the intervening year. Although the pandemic changed our plans for the Open Winners, we’re delighted that we are now able to go ahead with the exhibition this September. The makers have created a bright, colourful and joyful selection of work that deserves to be treasured for years to come.
- Graeme Howell, CEO of Shetland Arts
Treasured: Shetland Open Winners Exhibition will take place at Bonhoga Gallery from Friday 10 September to Sunday 31 October 2021. The exhibition will run according to Scottish government guidance at this time.
