Outwith: Valda, MacDiarmid and Whalsay - Event Programme
The story of Hugh MacDiarmid and Valda in Whalsay continues to inspire nearly a century on. Discover their legacy through a vibrant programme of events accompanying the exhibition. Take inspiration from archival materials through creative writing workshops, explore their world in artist-led talks, and experience hands-on calligraphy and bookbinding sessions. With engaging discussions and family-friendly activities, there are many ways to explore the lives, creativity and enduring influence of this remarkable couple.
HIGHLIGHT EVENTS
at Shetland Museum and Archives
MACDIARMID: IN CONVERSATION with Alexander Moffat, Ruth Nicol and Alan Riach
Sunday 29 March | 2pm - 3.30pm | £5 - BOOK
Inspired by the words and world of Hugh MacDiarmid, Alexander Moffat, Ruth Nicol and Alan Riach share how his letters, poetry and deep connection to the landscape continue to influence contemporary art and writing.
FIND ENCLOSED: CREATIVE BOOKBINDING WORKSHOP (ADULTS)
Tuesday 12 May | 4pm-6pm | £18 - BOOK
Inspired by ‘Outwith: Valda, MacDiarmid and Whalsay’ this workshop will guide you in hand-making a concertina-style journal or sketchbook. Valda’s letters and MacDiarmids writings will serve as creative prompts as you turn your handmade book into something uniquely yours.
Led by Nicky Brooks, Exhibitions Officer at National Library of Scotland. Materials and refreshments provided.
‘OUTWITH’ Memories Group
Friday 15 May | 10am-11am | FREE DROP IN
A special-edition reminiscence morning with the National Library team, featuring maps, moving image and other materials sparking memories and conversation.
THE ART OF WRITING WORKSHOP
Saturday 23rd May | 11am-12.30pm | £5 - BOOK
Ignite your creative writing in a relaxed, supportive workshop inspired by the poetry of Hugh MacDiarmid.
‘OUTWITH’ Shetland Museum Social
Wednesday 27 May | 2pm-3.30pm | FREE DROP IN
Come along to our informal Shetland Museum Socials where we'll explore various topics from the ‘Outwith: Valda, MacDiarmid and Whalsay’ exhibition
VALDA AND ‘GRIEVES’: HUGH MACDIARMID AND THE WHALSAY YEARS
20 June | 2pm-4pm | £5 - BOOK
Hear from MacDiarmid scholars about the Grieves’ time on Whalsay, their surviving correspondence, and their lasting impact on Shetland.
‘OUTWITH’ FAMILY FUN DAY
Wednesday 1 April | 10am-2pm | FREE DROP IN
Step into the lively lives of Hugh, Valda and their son Michael as you explore our vibrant exhibition in Da Gadderie. Follow exciting trails that lead you through their stories, discoveries and get creative with hands‑on craft activities whilst imagining what life was like for the family.
CREATIVE POETRY WORKSHOPS (PRIMARY 4-7)
Friday 3rd of April | 10.30-12noon and 2pm-3.30pm | £5 - BOOK
Immerse yourself in MacDiarmid’s poetry and letters in this imaginative, interactive session. Inspired by the historic works featured in the Outwith exhibition, we’ll delve into traditional writing styles and craft our own poems using a range of old style writing tools.
WHO’S HUGH WORKSHOPS (PRIMARY 1-4)
Wednesday 8th April | 10.30-12noon and 2-3.30pm | £5 - BOOK Who’s Hugh? Workshops (Primary 1-4)
Uncover the story of Hugh and Valda and gain a sense of what life on Whalsay was like for them. We’ll explore the Outwith exhibition, listen to poetry shaped by the island’s fishing traditions, and return to the learning room to create our own clay fourareens.
