A traditional style Fair Isle Side Chair produced from reclaimed oak, which arrived in Shetland as dunnage during the construction of the Shetland Gas Plant.

This one of a kind piece was created as part of a pair for the Bonhoga Gallery Open Winners’ Exhibition 2020. Due to COVID19, the show has been postponed until Autumn 2021.

Artists developed pieces inspired by the theme “Treasured”. Referencing Shetlander’s historic appreciation of reclaimed wood in a treeless environment, I took what would otherwise be considered construction waste and turned it into an heirloom piece, full of embodied history.

Despite the poor condition of the large timbers, which were covered in mud and badly split, they revealed beautiful grain and an authentic aged appearance. With careful working, the best of the wood and most interesting features have been preserved and presented in the form of traditional Fair Isle Chairs.

I have particularly enjoyed working in this reclaimed wood - not only is it visually appealing, there is also a great sense of satisfaction in reusing the cast off materials of a multi million pound oil industry development, and using it to create an heirloom item, inspired by the crofting life of the 19th century, which embodies and preserves traditional heritage crafts.

This item is scheduled for display in Bonhoga Gallery in Autumn 2021. This chair may be pre-ordered and delivery made on completion of the show.