Art in Nature Exhibition coming to Bressay

The exhibition, running from 20 October to 21 November 2026, showcases work created by participants of the Species on the Edge Art in Nature workshops. The aim of the workshops was to support participants in exploring and (re)connecting with Shetland's cultural and natural heritage through various creative practices. 

Workshop participants were led on guided walks of their local area and encouraged to pay attention to the landscape and nature around them. In follow-up workshops, they were supported in exploring the sights and sounds they discovered on their walks through different creative practices - from sound design, to silversmithery, to print-making. The outputs from these creative workshops will be on display at the upcoming exhibition. 

The exhibition is free to attend; some artworks will be available for sale. Visitors will also be able to view an original print by acclaimed artist Angela Harding which was inspired by the Species on the Edge project. 

Workshop and exhibition organiser, Aimee Labourne, said: "Delivering a workshop as part of this project was a wonderful experience. Developing ideas for my sessions, starting with a walk to Wadbister on the secluded east side of Bressay, gave so much insight into Shetland's plant life and bee species, as well as the human story. We saw such an abundance of wildflowers at the site, which were the results of conservation activity.  

In follow-up creative sessions using drawing and different small book formats, it was amazing to see how participants had been inspired by Wadbister, and I enjoyed seeing everyone's brilliantly creative drawings come to life. Thank you to everyone who joined and to Species on the Edge – I know the experience will continue to inform my creativity and awareness about biodiversity into the future." 

Nathalie Pion, Species on the Edge Shetland Area Lead and RSPB Shetland Conservation Advisor, said: "Species on the Edge was set up to protect threatened species, and building people's support for them has been at the heart of the programme. Hearing of workshop participants' experience has been really rewarding. With the support of local artists, they have gained creative skills, confidence, social connections and developed a deep appreciation for nature. Some have been inspired to take part in citizen science surveys and get involved in conservation volunteering." 

Pamela Turberville, a participant of the Art in Nature workshops, said: "I have learned so much about conservation and the importance of everybody trying to do their bit to help protect the wildlife and wildflowers in our community." 

Exhibition details: 

The exhibition runs from 20 October to 21 November 2026 at Speldiburn Cafe, Bressay. 

Opening times in October are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 11am to 3pm. In November, opening times are Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 3pm. 

Visitors are advised to check Speldiburn Cafe's Facebook page before travelling as these times may vary.