“A Wild Life For Wildlife” Exhibition – The world’s most interactive public art exhibition for Wildlife Conservation is in London. Running from 19 September 2023 to 18 September 2024.
On a recent visit to London, I was thrilled to view Gillie and Marc, in collaboration with the esteemed London Bridge City and ZSL (the Zoological Society of London). This captivating exhibition, “A Wild Life For Wildlife” will bring together art, conservation, and public engagement to raise awareness and support for endangered species.
The natural world, with its animals, forests, and lakes, provides us with unparalleled joy and wonder. However, the current reality of the 6th mass extinction is alarming, as more and more beautiful creatures face the threat of extinction, primarily due to human activities. “A Wild Life For Wildlife” aims to shine a spotlight on these critical issues and empower individuals to take action before it’s too late.
The exhibition invites the public to become an integral part of the journey with endangered animals through interactive sculptures and engaging experiences. By taking a seat on a tandem bike, joining a game of chess, or throwing a ball in a pool, visitors can connect with the stories of these imperilled species. Each sculpture is accompanied by QR codes that transport viewers to important information about the animals’ lives, needs, and threats, providing a deeper understanding of the urgent need for their conservation.
“We believe that wildlife conservation should no longer be confined to the outskirts of society but should take centre stage in our cities and lives,” said Gillie. “With ‘A Wild Life For Wildlife,’ we aim to create an accessible and immersive experience that ignites a sense of responsibility and encourages individuals to be part of the solution. By uniting art, conservation, and public engagement, we can inspire positive change for endangered species.“
The exhibition is part of the broader ‘Love The Last’ project, a social movement driven by public art to raise awareness, funds, and support for endangered animals worldwide. It serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action, inspiring people to share the stories of these endangered species through the hashtag #LoveTheLast.
This exhibit presents a significant opportunity to raise funds for international science and conservation charity ZSL and support their vital work protecting species across the world. “We are honoured to collaborate with ZSL and Gillie and Marc for ‘A Wild Life For Wildlife’,” said Marc. “Their tireless dedication to preserving endangered species aligns perfectly with our mission to raise awareness through art. Together, we can make a significant impact in safeguarding the biodiversity of our planet and inspiring future generations to become stewards of our natural world.”
The sculptures featured in “A Wild Life For Wildlife” include:
“The White Rhino was thinking ahead with Dogman’s encouragement”: Engage in a captivating game of chess with Dogman and a white rhino, highlighting the need for foresight and protection in the face of poaching threats.
“The Giant Tortoise and Rabbitwoman loved the sound of the wild”: Experience the melodious beauty of the wild through the ears of the giant tortoise, emphasizing the importance of preserving all species.
“The Masai Giraffe would stick his neck out with Rabbitwoman’s help”: Join Rabbitwoman and a Masai giraffe, celebrating the perseverance and integrity needed to protect this magnificent species.
“The African Elephant never forgot what he learned, and neither did Rabbitwoman”: Discover the joy of learning alongside Rabbitwoman and an African elephant, highlighting the importance of knowledge and conservation techniques in safeguarding this iconic species.
“The Eastern Lowland Gorilla only shoots photos with Dogman”: Strike a pose with Dogman and an Eastern Lowland gorilla, emphasizing the power of photography and raising awareness for the decline in gorilla populations.
“The Polar Bear and Dogman wanted everyone to stay cool”: Engage in a playful game with Dogman and a polar bear, reminding us of the urgent need to address climate change and protect their icy habitats.
“The Grevy’s Zebra was on the move to safer ground with Rabbitwoman and Dogman”: Experience the thrill of a wild ride with Rabbitwoman, Dogman, and a Grevy’s zebra, symbolizing the collective effort required to ensure the survival of all species.
In addition, two new sculptures will be unveiled in November to complete the sculpture trail that will make its way throughout the London Bridge City precinct. The exhibit will be in place until 2024.
Poppy Watt