Summer in Shetland is always a special time for me. Not only is it the busiest season for my business, but it’s also a time when I get to participate in two of my favourite local events: the Cunningsburgh and Voe Shows. Both shows offer a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creativity and talent of our small island community, and I’m always eager to take part. 

This year, I entered similar categories in both shows but with different items for each, as per the rules. These are the categories I entered and the corresponding pictures:

• Photography - garden, coastal scene, sunset (voe), Shetland landscape, nature, birds
• Flowers- various arrangements using bought flowers, garden arrangements, individual flowers
• Produce vegetables, individual and a collection of outdoor grown vegetables. This was the first time I've made a Veg character for Cunningsburgh
• Artwork - Painting, drawing, jewellery

One of the categories I was really excited to enter was the photography competition. It has become one of my greatest passions, and I’m particularly proud of the images I’ve taken right here in Shetland, often just outside my home and captured on my iPhone 11. For the Voe Show, I entered categories such as coastal scenes, sunsets, and Shetland landscapes, with my photograph of a Shetland sunset captured from my garden earning me the "Best Sunset" trophy for the second consecutive year. The competition was strong, so winning this trophy again was really special. I would also like to give a peerie shoutout to the Camera Centre in Lerwick where I print all my photos. 

At the Cunningsburgh Show, my underwater photograph of Dahlia Sea Anemones won the overall award - a surprising but incredibly rewarding result. Many people didn’t realise what the photo depicted, often mistaking the sea anemones for flowers, so I was thrilled that the judge recognised the true subject.

In addition to photography, I also entered various flower arrangements and produce categories. This year was my first attempt at creating a vegetable character for the Cunningsburgh Show, which was a fun experience. I also entered individual vegetables and a collection of outdoor-grown produce, adding a taste of Shetland’s to the shows.

Art is another passion of mine, and I entered several pieces in the painting, drawing, and jewellery categories. The standard of exhibits at both shows is incredibly high, and it’s always inspiring to see the talent on display. The modern version of a grandfather clock at the Voe Show this year was particularly stunning—an example of the creativity that’s present in our islands.

While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of creating entries to the shows, it’s important to acknowledge the tremendous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes. From organising entry schedules and finding judges to setting up tents, allocating trade stands, and coordinating prize-giving ceremonies, the effort required is immense. To streamline the entry process, Cunningsburgh Show’s organisers have even created an amazing website for online entries and payments, a project that took over 500 hours to complete! Having been a judge for the arts and crafts section at The Walls Show, I truly appreciate the hard work that goes on behind the scenes - it was an honour to be involved. 

I'm delighted that my love for these shows is something I share with my family. My 13-year-old son also took part this year, earning first prize for his drawing of an eagle, resulting in a special feature in the Shetland Times. The excitement about what he might enter next year is high, and I’m proud to see him following in my creative footsteps.

Participating in the Cunningsburgh and Voe Shows is always a highlight of my summer. The experience is not just about competition; it’s about celebrating the incredible talent and creativity that thrives in Shetland. Whether it’s through photography, artwork, or even vegetable characters, these events remind me of the magic of creativity and community.

As summer winds down and the visitors to my studio slows, I look forward to winter - a time for developing and creating new items for my business. I’ve already turned my winning sunset photo into a greeting card and plan to create more framed prints from my photographs. You can buy my award-winning Dahlia Sea Anemones Photo Print here. 

My studio will remain open until the end of September, and then I will revert to my winter opening hours, which are by appointment only. Please do get in touch if you would like to arrange a winter visit.