Museum to spotlight powerful stories from fishing industry

AN INSPIRING photography exhibition shining a light on the lives of Scotland's fishing communities will feature at the Scottish Fisheries Museum this June.

A celebration of the passion, heritage, and commitment to sustainability of today's fishing communities, the Scottish Fishermen's Federation 's Pride in the Seas exhibition features 12 subjects from Shetland to Berwickshire, captured by acclaimed Scottish photographer Ian Georgeson.

It brings to life the narratives of those working in the industry with insights into the many challenges that fishermen face and their passion for the industry and its future.

Following success at the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Skipper Expo, the exhibition will now make its way to the Scottish Fisheries Museum in the historic fishing port of Anstruther from 26 June to 16 September.

Linda Fitzpatrick, Head Curator of the Scottish Fisheries Museum said: "We are committed to sharing the history, culture and innovation of Scotland's fishing industry, to educate and inform people of all ages.

"The Pride in the Seas exhibition is an insight into the lives of those at the very heart of the industry.

"We're excited to feature the exhibition over the summer, and to shine a light on pride that comes from within the fishing communities."

The historic buildings of the Scottish Fisheries Museum, once used as a fisherman's store, chandlery and boatyard, will provide a compelling backdrop for these modern-day scenes as they connect with the communities they were designed to represent.

Visitors can wander the museum exhibits, discovering the personal stories behind each photograph, and contributing their own comments and perspectives on sustainable fishing's role in Scotland's food security and low-carbon future.

More than 50 Members of the Scottish Parliament, including the First Minister and the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, have already signed a pledge to protect the future of the country's fishing sector.

Elspeth Macdonald, Chief Executive of the Scottish Fishermen's Federation, stated: "The passion and pride of those working in the industry is a constant source of inspiration. They are out there in all manner of conditions, putting healthy, sustainable and climate-smart food on our tables.

"As well as featuring active fishers, it also includes scientists who work in the sector, highlighting the key role they have in embedding science into sustainable fisheries.

"The campaign has been extremely well received, it's the first of its kind, capturing the spirit, integrity and pride our fishing communities' possess.

"Hosting the exhibition at the Scottish Fisheries Museum will give people of all ages and backgrounds a unique insight into the realities of life in our fishing communities - both the rewards and the sacrifices."

Admission to the 'Pride in the Seas' exhibition is free with the purchase of a Scottish Fisheries Museum entry (£11 for adults, £8.80 concessions, free for members and children). The museum is open Monday and Wednesday - Saturday 10 am - 4.30 pm; Sunday 11 am- 4.30 pm.

Working for the interests of 450 fishing vessels in Scotland's fleet, the SFF is made up of eight Associations which represent the sector from small creel boats to large pelagic and white fish trawlers.

For more details visit https://scotfishmuseum.org/blog/post.php?s=2024-06-04-pride-in-the-seas

The full exhibition and case studies are now available to view on the SFF website: https://www.sff.co.uk/news/category/pride-in-the-seas

Pride in the Seas case studies:

• Trevor Spouse, Skipper in Eyemouth
• Mark Anderson, Skipper, and son Nicol, Deckhand, in Shetland
• Colin Stephen, Skipper in Peterhead
• Mark Robertson, part-owner, and sons Paul and Adam, Skippers, in Fraserburgh
• Willie John McLean, Skipper in Mallaig
• Erin Mackenzie, Deckhand in Mallaig
• Dr Steve Mackinson, Chief Scientist, Scottish Pelagic Fishermen's Association
• Dr Paul Macdonald, Senior Fisheries Analyst, Scottish Fishermen's Organisation
• Elena Balestri, Senior Fisheries Policy and Science Manager, Scottish Fishermen's Federation

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