The Island of Whalsay - population 1000, what makes this tiny island in the Shetland Islands so extraordinary is the success of its small fleet of fishing boats. Under the same name each captain has been operating a vessel since the mid-seventies; from 70 foot wooden boats, growing in size to today's huge supertrawlers which are the largest of their type in the fleet of the entire United Kingdom. The boats are worth in excess of ten million pounds each. All the boats in this collection of paintings are owned by island families and most of the crew members have an investment in them; quite an achievement for a small island.

There's a harsh reality to the fishing industry in Scotland, and in this case specifically Shetland. That reality might well serve to eliminate the island group from deriving any economic benefit from the sea that has sustained these populations for thousands of years. Thistle & Broom invites you to learn more and to support the concept of Shetland community-owned pelagic quotas.

Scotland's real wealth is destined for distant shores. Scotland's youth struggle with the choice to stay on the land of their fathers and mothers and struggle to earn a living. With a hope of preserving the artistic heritage unique to this country your purchase will help to establish the Thistle & Broom Scholarship.

Due to the monumental size of this piece of art, we will contact you to advise on the delivery costs