Island Voices – Guthan nan Eilean
2005 – 2026 Collection – ‘The Language of Community Life’ Sampled over 21 years
Where: Museum nan Eilean, Lionacleit
When: Until 14 August 2026
Slices of life in and beyond the Hebrides
Originating from communities in the Outer Hebrides, the Guthan nan Eilean project has collected more than 500 video recordings celebrating spoken language, local heritage and personal stories. A new mini exhibition featuring highlights from the collection will be available from late June to mid-August at Museum nan Eilean.
Visitors will be able to watch a short compilation film and learn more about the project through accompanying displays and QR codes linking to the full online collection. A key feature of both exhibitions is an invitation for visitors to contribute their own responses. Feedback can be shared in writing or by voice message, reflecting the project’s focus on spoken language and community participation.
Gordon Wells, Island Voices project co-ordinator, said: “We would really welcome contributions from visitors and participants in Gaelic or English. We’d love to hear what people think of the project, any memories it may have stirred, or ideas for how it could develop in the future. Voicemails are just as welcome as emails – perhaps even more so, given the project’s focus on spoken language and the voices of communities!”
More information on the project from the project website www.guthan.wordpress.com
