About Paparwark

Paparwark means ‘priestly work’ and it is the Celtic priests’ lifestyle and outlook that has influenced my work.  Inspired by their amazing attention to detail and desire to set off on an adventure ‘to see where it takes them’ is a philosophy that I carry with me.  I, too, like to try new things to see what happens.

I admire the way the priests made good use of their time to produce beautiful objects that could be cherished.

My inspiration comes from Shetland’s natural landscape and wildlife and I experiment with different woods, grains, burning, sandblasting, colouring and weathering to create unique art forms including chests shaped like Shetland ponies, benches formed in the shape of boats and an innovative guitar stand that becomes a stool to seat the player.

Each piece I create has a story behind it, so people are in fact buying into a fragment of Shetland’s history and not just purchasing an item of furniture.

I have inherited my skills in woodwork from my great great grandfather.  I made a rocking chair when I was just 16 years old and my career took off from there.  Paparwark Furniture was established almost four years ago and in such a short time has grown into a successful business with recent projects being commissioned by some of Shetland’s foremost organisations.

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