Dirk Robertson is a Shetland-based artist whose large-scale paintings boldly interpret legends and folklore from around the world.
Drawing monsters age 4 (1990)
Dirk with "Ymir" (2015)
Since he was a ‘peerie bairn’ he has found his refuge and passion in art. Devoting his time to drawing all through his school days, then into college. Robertson developed a style of storytelling through paintings, depicting otherworldly characters and elaborate landscapes in colourful acrylics.
This unbridled artistic approach to tales of gore, trickery and cosmic realms creates an immersive experience for the viewer. Robertson’s paintings capture the elements of time, movement and emotion to portray a single legendary moment, whilst his precise background detail simultaneously tells a much greater story.
Bazils mural (2014)
Robertson’s artistic storytelling style has led the him to create large murals in Shetland, Aberdeen and New Zealand. Contributing poster, teeshirt and CD artwork to the Northern Scottish metal scene. And now focusing his attention on illustrating the ancient Scandinavian viking manuscript, the Prose Edda.
Dirk's influences include surrealist painters H.R. Giger, Dali, Bosch and Alex Grey. Heavy metal album artists Derek Riggs, Ed Repka and John Baizley. Line art by Gustave Dore and Robert Crumb.
Exhibition poster 2019
PUBLIC SHOWS
Shetland Museum and Archives
Exhibition – Myrtle and Meenie book launch
October 2021
Old Haa Museum, Burravoe
Exhibition – Gods and Monsters
June 2019
Shetland Museum and Archives
Exhibition – Gods and Monsters
April 2019
The Outpost, Burra
Mural – “The Watering Hole”
August 2018
Heavy Metal Buffet Music Festival
Exhibition – Dirk Robertson Art
August 2017
Bazils Hostel and Surf School
New Zealand
Mural – “The Legend of Tane Mahuta”
January 2017
Heavy Metal Buffet Music Festival
Exhibition – Dirk Robertson Art
August 2016
Krakatoa, Aberdeen
Mural – “Parrots and Pirates”
November 2015
Peerie Shop Café, Lerwick
Exhibition – Dirk Robertson Art
October 2015
Heavy Metal Buffet Music Festival
Exhibition – Dirk Robertson Art
August 2015
The Moorings, Aberdeen
Mural – “Tiki”
November 2014
Heavy Metal Buffet Music Festival
Exhibition – Dirk Robertson Art
August 2014
Bonhoga Gallery, Shetland
Exhibition – Shetland Open
April 2014
Bazils Hostel and Surf School
New Zealand
Mural – “Legend of Poutini”
January 2014