Community / Fair Isle knitwear photography from the 70s to go on display
AN EXHIBITION celebrating the iconic Fair Isle knitwear of the 1970s through the lens of photographer Chris Morphet is set to open soon in Lerwick.
Opening on Saturday 28 September in Shetland Museum’s Gadderie space, the exhibition Allover presents a “bold and colourful collection” of images captured by Morphet, whose fascination with Fair Isle jumpers brought him to Shetland in June 1970.
The exhibition offers a nostalgic glimpse into pre-oil boom Shetland, where knitwear was not just a tradition but a part of life.
The photographer, who is now in his 80s, first encountered Fair Isle knitwear whilst photographing Pete Townshend of rock band The Who in London.
Determined to explore its origins, Morphet embarked on a journey to Shetland, capturing the people and the knitwear in a series of spontaneous and authentic portraits.
“I didn’t have a plan, I just wanted to find and photograph these distinctive jumpers,” he recalled.
“I started in Lerwick and travelled all over Shetland. It was an adventure – simply seeking out anyone wearing Fair Isle.”
The resulting images, many of which are exhibited for the first time, provide a unique social, cultural, and historical record of Shetland in the 1970s.
These evocative photographs remain as contemporary and relevant today as they were over half a century ago.
Curated by exhibitions officer Karen Clubb, Allover also includes a selection of knitwear from the 1960s and 70s from Shetland Museum’s textile collection.
Clubb said: “Bringing these images full circle, back to Shetland, has been an extraordinary experience.
“Morphet’s generous donation of the 35mm colour transparencies has allowed us to exhibit images that have never been seen before, taking visitors on a visual journey across Shetland, from Lerwick to Fair Isle, Whalsay and Unst.”
The timing of the exhibition coincides with Shetland Wool Week, which opens next weekend, an annual celebration of the islands’ rich textile heritage, managed by Shetland Amenity Trust.
Morphet will travel to Shetland for the launch of the exhibition and will also participate in an exclusive talk.
Visitors are invited to hear him in conversation with Jane Moncrieff, as the pair reunite following their memorable interview on BBC Radio Shetland in 2019.
Reflecting on the exhibition, Morphet said: “It’s amazing to see these photos come back to Shetland and this exhibition is a celebration of Shetland – its knitters, sheep, patterns and locations.
“At the time, I was just starting my career, but I’m proud these images capture a unique moment in time. It will be heartwarming to see them up on the walls. Shetland is a brilliant place, and there is absolutely nothing fake about it.
“All the people in the photos are genuine and real. They are the real stars.”
The exhibition will run until Sunday 29 December.
An In Conversation with Chris Morphet event will also be held at the museum on Saturday 28 September at 2pm. Tickets are available online here.
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