At the north-western edge of Europe, between Orkney and Shetland, Fair Isle is shaped by weather, sea and the continual movement of birds across the Atlantic. This remarkable ecology lies at the heart of The Birds of Fair Isle, a major new publication featuring specially commissioned linocut prints by Lisa Hooper.
Situated between Orkney and Shetland, the Fair Isle Bird Observatory has long been a vital outpost for the study of seabirds and migratory species. Remote yet richly biodiverse, Fair Isle offers an unparalleled vantage point for observing bird movements at the north-western edge of Europe.
To support its ongoing research and conservation work, the Observatory commissioned two linocut prints by Lisa Hooper (SWLA) for the covers of its recent two-volume publication The Birds of Fair Isle. Lisa’s artwork captures both the distinctive character of the island’s birdlife and the stark qualities of its landscape.
Reflecting on the commission, Lisa says:
“I don’t usually work as an illustrator or undertake commissions, but over the years I’ve provided artwork for numerous bird reports in Dumfries and Galloway and North Ronaldsay, so I was excited to be approached to illustrate the cover of the new Birds of Fair Isle in 2023. I first discovered Shetland in 2018 and was mesmerised by its raw natural beauty and astonishing birdlife. I’m very proud to have played a small part in these books, which are an astonishing achievement more than thirty years on from the previous, much more modest volume.”
The publication marks the continuation of decades of systematic research undertaken by the Observatory. From monitoring seabird populations to documenting rare migrant sightings, the data gathered on Fair Isle contributes to a wider understanding of environmental change and biodiversity conservation.
As Ian Andrews — trustee of the Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust (FIBOT) and co-author of The Birds of Fair Isle — explains:
“Our new book distils 75 years of bird records into a richly illustrated and accessible account. Its introductory chapters set the scene, outlining the island’s geology, geography, vegetation, and the development of its ornithological history.”
Alongside its scientific work, the Observatory also operates a guest house, welcoming visitors from around the world. Birdwatchers, researchers, and travellers alike are drawn to the island’s quiet isolation and remarkable wildlife.
Ian reflects on one of the island’s most iconic species:
“Many visitors come to Fair Isle for the chance to see Puffins at remarkably close range. Throughout the summer, these wonderfully characterful seabirds are easily found just a short walk from the Observatory. Even after countless trips, they still stand out as one of the island’s enduring highlights for me. With Sheep Rock rising behind them, the Puffins create an unmistakable Fair Isle scene — beautifully captured in Lisa’s artwork.”
This collaboration between art and science underscores the Observatory’s core mission: to engage, inform, and help safeguard this unique ecosystem.
Find out more about the Fair Isle Bird Observatory.
View our collection of Lisa Hooper greeting cards.
Photography by Ian Andrews and Alex Penn.
