Agriculture and Climate Change (Commonwealth Union) _ Salisbury Cathedral is set to host a groundbreaking art exhibition, “Our Earth,” curated by Beth Hughes, the Cathedral’s Curator for Visual Arts. Running from April 20 to October 6, 2024, the exhibition will delve into the profound impact of climate change on our planet.
Featuring both indoor and outdoor installations, “Our Earth” will showcase artworks that reflect on the quality of the air we breathe, the evolving landscapes around us, and the connection between the environment and our mental wellbeing.
One striking outdoor installation, “Seaview (2024),” by artist Hilary Jack, will be displayed on the North Lawn. This dramatic piece portrays a house teetering on a steep slope, symbolizing the threat of coastal erosion and adverse weather conditions to our homes. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the structure, highlighting the fragility of our surroundings.
In the Cloisters, visitors will encounter another of Jack’s works, “Turquoise Bag (2013),” crafted from bronze to draw attention to the pervasive issue of single-use plastic pollution in our environment.
Additionally, three large banners, derived from drawings by artist Dryden Goodwin from his work “Breathe (2012-2024),” will be hung outside the main visitor entrance. These banners, created in collaboration with London air quality scientists, underscore the pressing need for dialogue surrounding air pollution. One of the drawings features Rosamund Adoo-Kiss-Debrah, a clean air activist whose daughter’s tragic death was attributed to air pollution.
Beth Hughes emphasized the significance of addressing the climate crisis through art, highlighting the role of artists in raising awareness and fostering appreciation for our natural world. She noted the Cathedral’s commitment to environmental stewardship, making it an ideal venue for meaningful discussions about the future of our planet.
“Our Earth” promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening exhibition, inviting visitors to contemplate the challenges of climate change while inspiring hope for a sustainable future. The exhibition opens on April 20 and admission is included with general Cathedral entry.
