Art Exhibition: Dungscape

Gail Reid

15 August – 6 September

Monday to Sunday 10am-4pm in the Knepp Wilding Shop

Step into a fascinating intersection of art, science, and conservation with Gail Reid’s latest exhibition, Dungscape. Drawing on museum natural history collections, field research, and meticulous study, Reid reveals the astonishing biodiversity thriving in the unlikeliest of places – the dung of Old English Longhorn cows at Knepp.

Free from industrial chemicals, these cowpats sustain a vibrant ecosystem of beetles, butterflies, bats, and more. Explore the debauched antics of dung flies, the heroic work of parasitic wasps, and the delicate balance of life within this miniature world.

Through detailed microscope studies and sweeping oil paintings, created in collaboration with entomologists and museum curators in Bristol and London, Dungscape bridges the gap between collections and the field, revealing the beauty, complexity, and importance of the often-overlooked microcosms around us.

About the artist

Gail Reid’s practice spans painting, drawing and narrative work addressing ecological and social themes. A panellist and TEDx speaker, with a background in computing, Gail has exhibited widely in gallery exhibitions, conferences and events. She has a strong track record of engaging audiences in person and online, through both traditional and interdisciplinary projects.

This project is generously supported by The Society of Wildlife Artists’ Natural Eye bursary award, and will be shown in the 63rd SWLA annual open exhibition at The Mall Galleries, London.

Learn more about Gail Reid and her practice here.

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Our 12+ Policy

Knepp Wildland Safaris, our gardens and campsite are all about the quiet and patient observation of nature.

Some of the species we are likely to encounter are shy or can be frightened by loud noises or sudden movements. Our campsite with open-air fire-pits, wood-burning stoves and an on-site pond is unsuitable for small children.

For this reason, our safaris, garden visits, holiday cottages and campsite are suitable only for children of 12 and over.

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