Immerse yourself in the world of birds, exploring avian symbolism in art and trace its significance across time and cultures when the latest exhibition at The Bowes Museum opened on January 27.
“Murmuration” presents a wide selection of work from artists and makers from various generations, backgrounds and contexts, whose work ranges across drawing, sculpture, film and installation.
This group show takes inspiration from the ornithologist, photographer and former Barnard Castle School pupil Bentley Beetham, who took part in the 1924 British Mount Everest expedition.
Featuring ornithological imagery from the collection and contextual metaphors that reference flocking together for safety and survival, the exhibition explores birds as an indicator species responsive to environmental change and looks at migration in terms of avian and human understanding of home and belonging.
Visitors will be able to learn more about the complexity and nuance surrrounding taxidermy, from its role as a teaching resource to its connections to scientific racism and colonial exploitation, as well as considering the ethical and cultural implications of preserving animals for study and display.
Another aspect will be exploring the profound relationships we share with birds; transcending species barriers and fostering kinship.
Through a series of events, interventions and resources, Murmuration will raise awareness of our impact on the environment and promote change toward a more sustainable, equitable and ecological future for the planet.
Vicky Sturrs, the museum’s director of programmes and collections, said: “This exhibition showcases a number of previously unseen works from our stores alongside contemporary pieces that together explore our human impact in and on the natural world.”
Murmuration runs until June 23. It will be accompanied by a programme of radical ecology events aimed at adults. Admission is included with entry to the museum which is open daily.
