Commissioned by Orkney Islands Council Gabrielle Barnby, Scrivener for the Orkney 2025 Island Games, has invited and compiled pieces of writing from participating island groups to produce a dazzling collection that captures the rich diversity of voices present in island communities. Writers were also invited to record their voices as part of the Sound Art installation at St Magnus Cathedral created by local musician Brian Cromarty.

Island Voices is a unique collection of writing from across the world. Each piece has its own mood and own method of telling and each piece reflects a moment in time and space special to the writer and their relationship to island places. The writing has been generously shared and represents the work of both seasoned and newer writers of all ages from communities connected by Orkney 2025 Island Games.

The collection has been published as a limited edition pocket book for Orkney 2025 volunteers, participants and delegates featuring images from Orkney community members working with Soulisquoy Printmakers. It can also be enjoyed on-line through the links below.

Original artwork will be displayed at The Pier Art Centre this summer. link to: https://www.pierartscentre.com/current-upcoming-exhibition/islandvoices

The Island Voices collection and sound art installation will be celebrated with readings and a chance to meet some of the writers on Thursday 17th July in the St Magnus Centre, Kirkwall, 7.00-8.30.