Oscar Charlie – Guardian of the Isles

A dramatic original seascape celebrating one of the most familiar and reassuring sights in Shetland’s skies — Oscar Charlie.

For generations, the name Oscar Charlie has been synonymous with Shetland’s search and rescue helicopter. From some of the islands’ most difficult moments to countless rescues at sea and on land, the distinctive red and white helicopter has become far more than an aircraft; it is part of Shetland life.

This piece depicts Oscar Charlie above a wild Shetland sea, surrounded by sweeping grey skies, turquoise water and breaking white waves. It feels particularly poignant at a time of change, as trials and preparations take place around the new generation of Coastguard helicopters that will eventually take over search and rescue duties.

Created in layers of resin and mixed media, the movement of the sea contrasts with the small but unmistakable helicopter overhead — a reminder of the crews who head out when conditions are at their worst.

Oscar Charlie – Guardian of the Isles is both a celebration of Shetland’s dramatic seas and a tribute to an aircraft name that has meant safety, rescue and reassurance to islanders for more than 40 years.