Latest News

Originally founded by forward-thinking women to provide opportunities for learning, finding friends and sharing skills, the Scottish Women’s Institute in Orkney is celebrating its centenary year. 

The distinct heritage of Orkney’s many communities is set to benefit from the expertise of the Council’s Museums team, thanks to almost £100,000 of support from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation. 

A 50-year friendship borne out of a love of art sees a special reunion taking place with a new joint exhibition at the Orkney Museum. 

The Visual Artists and Craft Makers (VACMA) Award is now open for applications by Orkney artists, with a higher level of grant for experienced artists this year.

The introduction of a visitor levy scheme in Orkney is to be investigated after Councillors today (24 September) recommended funding of up to £20k to carry out a number of feasibility activities. 

The Picky Centre was alive with the sound of music on Thursday (19 September) thanks to the hard work of everyone involved in the Orkney Schools Instrumental Music Service concert. 

An untitled painting by one of Orkney’s best-known artists – Stanley Cursiter – has been gifted to the Orkney Museum to go on public display in its original island context. 

Orkney Islands Council has received £80k from the National Heritage Memorial Fund (NHMF), on behalf of the Sanday community, for a huge freshwater tank to house shipwreck timbers discovered on the island’s shores earlier this year - protecting them for future research.

People can now buy a combined gift voucher for both St Magnus Cathedral tours – keep your feet on the ground with a wander around the historic graveyard or reach new heights with a tour of the upper levels of the building. 

Local folk are being urged to submit stories and writing showcasing island life for a special public arts project created by the Council and centred on island identity, as the county prepares for visitors from around the world during the Orkney 2025 International Island Games.