Business Details
14 Years
experience
Contemporary Art & Craft Gallery in Shetland
Established in 2012 by Shona and Alan Skinner, The Shetland Gallery serves as a platform to showcase the finest contemporary art and high-end crafts from Shetland. As the northernmost art gallery in Britain, we are dedicated to promoting local talent while connecting Shetland's artistic heritage with global audiences. Our rotating exhibitions feature works by renowned artists inspired by the region's dramatic landscapes and unique cultural identity.With over a decade of experience, we have successfully shipped art internationally, bridging geographical boundaries to share Shetland's creative spirit. Our mission extends to nurturing emerging artists, ensuring the preservation and evolution of the islands' rich artistic traditions for future generations.
Services
Art Exhibitions
Craft Sales
Artist Promotion
Art Shipping
Local Art Workshops
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We are the northernmost art gallery in Britain
- We showcase works by Shetland's most renowned artists
- We have shipped art internationally since 2012
- Our exhibitions change regularly to inspire repeat visits
- We support both established and emerging local talent
What people say
Breathtaking artwork
Unique Shetland perspective
Changing exhibitions
Dedicated to local talent
Inspiring location
Services
Art Exhibitions
Our rotating exhibitions feature contemporary works by Shetland's most celebrated artists. We present diverse mediums including painting, textiles, and sculpture in a dynamic space that changes seasonally. Each exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the evolving artistic landscape of the islands.
Craft Sales
We showcase high-end crafts from local makers, including textiles, ceramics, and jewellery. These handcrafted items reflect Shetland's rich heritage while embracing modern design principles. All pieces are available for purchase either in-gallery or through our international shipping service.
Artist Promotion
We actively support both established and emerging artists through exhibition opportunities and professional development. Our platform helps local creators gain national and international recognition while preserving traditional techniques passed down through generations in the islands.
Art Shipping
Despite our remote location, we offer international shipping for all purchased artworks. Our secure packaging and logistics network ensure safe delivery worldwide, enabling global collectors to acquire pieces from Shetland's most talented creators.
Local Art Workshops
We occasionally host workshops led by exhibiting artists, offering hands-on experiences with various mediums. These sessions provide unique insights into the creative processes behind our displayed works and opportunities to learn traditional Shetland craft techniques.
People
Shona Skinner
Founder
Co-founder of The Shetland Gallery with over 30 years' experience as an art teacher. Born in 2010, she transitioned to full-time artist and gallery director, leveraging her deep family roots in the North Isles to promote local talent.
Ruth Brownlee
Featured Artist
Renowned painter who moved to Shetland in 1998. Graduated from Edinburgh College of Art with BA Hons in Drawing and Painting. Her work captures the dramatic light and moods of Shetland's landscapes through distinctive artistic interpretations.
Peter Davis
Featured Artist
Former Shetland art teacher elected to the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour (RSW) in 2023. Recognized as one of Scotland's leading watercolourists, with decades of experience creating evocative landscape paintings.
Sam Dennis
Featured Artist
Archaeologist and basket maker who creates intricate woven pieces inspired by Shetland's natural environment. Combines professional expertise in archaeology with traditional craft techniques to produce unique functional artworks.
Coleen Thomson
Featured Artist
Yell-born artist celebrated for her creative work rooted in Shetland's cultural heritage. Lives in Aywick on Yell's east coast, producing contemporary pieces that reflect her deep connection to the island's artistic traditions.
Questions
What type of art can I see at The Shetland Gallery?
We exhibit contemporary paintings, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and sculptures by Shetland's leading artists, reflecting the islands' natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Are the artworks for sale?
Yes, all exhibited works are available for purchase, with secure international shipping options available for overseas buyers.
How do I visit the gallery?
We're open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm and Sunday 2pm-5pm from Easter to late September. Appointments available outside these hours.
Can I meet the artists?
Artist profiles are available, and we occasionally host events where visitors can meet exhibiting artists during their working hours.
Is the gallery accessible?
Our location in Sellafirth, Yell requires travel to Shetland's remote north. We recommend checking ferry schedules and local transport options before visiting.
How long has the gallery been operating?
The Shetland Gallery has been showcasing local art since its founding in 2012 by Shona and Alan Skinner.