The Greenland Tartan
THE GREENLAND TARTAN
Woven in Scotland, the Greenland tartan is a living tribute to the enduring connection between Scotland and Greenland.
Greenland and Scotland share commonalities through our deep-seated Nordic/Viking heritage, geological connection via the Greenland-Scotland Ridge, Arctic connections in climate/trade, cultural similarities (storytelling, outdoors), and parallels in modern self-determination debates (Greenland's path to autonomy inspiring Scottish independence discussions). Both have northern islands closer to the Arctic than to southern capitals, fostering shared interests in Arctic governance and energy.
It's not before time we gifted Greenlanders/Kalaallit their very own tartan
It's not before time we gifted Greenlanders/Kalaallit their very own tartan
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From the first whaling voyages to Greenland’s shores in the 1750s, to present-day polar expeditions, Scots have played a vital role in Arctic exploration and in deepening our understanding of its landscapes and peoples.
This tartan design is based on the historic Wylie tartan sett, honouring Isobel Wylie Hutchison, Scottish explorer, filmmaker and botanist, whose journeys across Greenland enriched the botanic gardens of Edinburgh and Kew, and whose warmth forged lasting friendships with Greenlanders, including the respected explorer and anthropologist Knud Rasmussen, known as the ‘Father of Inuit Studies’.
The red and white in the design reflect the bold flag of Greenland, while vibrant pinks represent the Niviarsiaq, or Dwarf Fireweed, the nation's national flower
WEAVING NOW
The looms are set in motion for Greenland. In Scotland, we understand the quiet strength required to face adversity, and it is this courage that we now offer - woven with care, compassion, and unwavering solidarity.
As each thread comes together, it carries with it our hope for brighter days. When we wear this tartan, we do so not only in support of Greenland, but as a living symbol of unity and resilience. May these threads bring comfort and fortitude, and remind us all of the enduring power of standing together.
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To weave and gift this tartan from Scotland is to celebrate courage, friendship and heritage, a gesture that carries with it the spirit of adventure and the enduring bonds between our two nations.