'Outwith’ exhibition to conclude with special day of poetry, talks and film

Since opening, the exhibition has attracted significant local and national interest, exploring the lives, creativity and enduring legacy of Christopher and Valda Grieve through the lens of their time in Whalsay. Drawing together manuscripts and letters on loan from the National Library of Scotland alongside local stories, research and community contributions, the exhibition has offered fresh insight into the lives of Christopher and Valda Grieve and the island that shaped them.

Tracey Hawkins, collections manager at Shetland Museum and Archives said: “This has been such a special exhibition for us. It has grown far beyond the original idea of displaying manuscripts and letters between Valda and Christopher on loan from National Library of Scotland. It has evolved into something much richer, bringing together community research, local knowledge and fresh perspectives on Hugh and Valda’s lives in Shetland.

“We wanted to reflect that by dedicating a whole day to different aspects of the exhibition. Whether people choose to come along to one event or stay for the whole day, there will be something for everyone – from those with a long-standing interest in MacDiarmid to those who are simply curious to discover more.”

The day will begin with the Grieves in Whalsay: People, Place and Memory, a panel discussion chaired by Dr Colin McIlroy of NLS. Bringing together voices from the Whalsay Heritage Group and Shetland Museum and Archives, the conversation will explore Christoper and Valda’s years in Whalsay, the relationships they built within the community and the everyday realities of island life. Drawing on local knowledge, archival insight and shared memories, the session offers an opportunity to encounter a more personal side of the Grieves, rooted in place, community and landscape.

In the afternoon visitors will have the chance to hear from leading MacDiarmid scholars as they examine the lasting significance of the Grieves’ time in Whalsay. The session will explore surviving correspondence, literary influences and the continuing impact of their Shetland years nearly a century later. Joining the discussion will be Dr Colin McIlroy alongside renowned Hugh MacDiarmid experts Professor Patrick Crotty and Professor Alan Riach, as well as writer and researcher Alex Linklater.

The celebrations will conclude with an evening of poetry and film inspired by Hugh MacDiarmid. Local poets will share selections of MacDiarmid’s work alongside their own writing. The night also features two standout films: Margaret Tait’s beautifully observed portrait and Oscar Marzaroli’s striking take on MacDiarmid and his world. Together, they offer an intimate portrait of the poet behind the page. It will be a relaxed, creative evening of poetry, film, conversations and eight o’clocks.

Tracey Hawkins added: “This will be a wonderful way to bring the exhibition to a close and to celebrate the many people who have contributed to its success. It has been a privilege to share this fascinating chapter in the lives of Hugh and Valda.”

The special events take place on Saturday 20 June at the Shetland Museum and Archives.
To book your space visit the Shetland Museum Box Office.