Oil industry portraits
FROM tomorrow until 3rd November Da Gadderie is to exhibit a collection of portraits celebrating the vital role played by Scotland’s oil industry within the UK.
Originally shown at The Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh in 2006, “Energy: North Sea Portraits” by Scottish painter Fionna Carlisle illustrates the human story behind the industry and documents the impact that it has had on individuals and communities. Over a period of 18 months, Carlisle created more than 20 new portraits of individuals who play their part in the oil industry today. Sharing the experiences of the workers on the platforms, she painted many of the portraits in situ as well as in Aberdeen and at her studio in Edinburgh. The portrait exhibition is accompanied by a catalogue telling the varied lives of the sitters, along with an essay by Bill Mackie – the eminent authority on the history of the oil industry – recounting the heroic stories of the individuals involved.
An established portrait painter and native of Wick, Carlisle initiated the project after a chance meeting with leading figures in the oil industry at a charity dinner in Aberdeen.
Shetland Museum exhibitions officer John Hunter said: “In response to working in situ, with only limited time Fionna has developed an impressionistic style for this set of portraits. The result is a vibrant and fresh exhibition which captures the personalities of the people and reflects a moment in time for the oil industry.”
Carlisle will also be giving an afternoon portraiture workshop on Saturday 11th October from 2pm to 5pm, where participants will also discover more about her exhibition. The workshop is suitable for adults of with no previous drawing experience. Places are free but numbers are limited. To book contact (01595) 695057.
