Exhibitions
There are a number of exhibition spaces and feature display areas throughout the Museum and Archives building. The artefacts and works on display change regularly and details of our current shows are listed here.
The main exhibition space is Da Gadderie. Shows on display here can be by individual artists, or curated by the Museum's own Exhibitions Officer based on Museum and Archive artefacts, or including touring exhibitions from other musuems, galleries or institutions.
Any artist who would like to display work in the building should contact the Exhibitions Officer to discuss.
Some of our exhibitions in Da Gadderie include pieces that are available for sale. We are now members of the Own Art Scheme service which means you can pay for your art in 10 interest-free monthly installments. Get in touch to find out more.
Current Exhibitions
Outwith: Valda, MacDiarmid and Whalsay
Da Gadderie, Shetland Museum and Archives
Shetland Museum and Archives will launch an exhibition for spring 2026, coinciding with centenary and bicentenary celebrations at the National Library of Scotland (NLS) and Royal Scottish Academy (RSA).
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Bobby Simpson
Hays Dock Upper Foyer
This focused exhibition celebrates the craftsmanship of Bobby Simpson, a gifted Shetland hobbyist whose keen observational skill shaped his hand-carved figures in wood, cork and driftwood
ViewForthcoming Exhibitions
RSA 200 | Shared Connections
Da Briggiestanes, Shetland Museum
The ‘Shetland Connections’ exhibition at Shetland Museum and Archives celebrates the RSA’s 200th anniversary through works drawn from the museum’s own art collection. Each piece has a connection to Shetland - through landscape, people, history, or the artists who were inspired by these islands.
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An Archives for Shetland: 50 Year Anniversary
Shetland Archives
Celebrating 50 years of the Shetland Archives, this display shows how and why the archive came into being. From its beginnings to its present-day role, it highlights the importance of safeguarding the documents, photographs, and records that tell Shetland’s story.
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A Time to Keep: J D Rattar - 150 Years of Photography in Shetland
Da Gadderie, Shetland Museum and Archives
John David “Jack” Rattar, born in Fethaland, Northmavine, captured the life of Shetland through his photography. From landscapes and harbours to wildlife, crofting, and traditional crafts, his images offer a vivid record of the islands in the early 20th century.
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