Wollaton Hall in Nottingham is set to display some of the tiniest sculptures ever made during the Disappearing World exhibition, which will run from April to October.
The exhibition, featuring 20 micro-sculptures by artist Dr. Willard Wigan, aims to raise awareness of environmental issues. Nottingham City Council expressed excitement about hosting the event in the recently renovated galleries at Wollaton Hall.
The exhibition emphasizes the threat to biodiversity and coincides with the launch of a new natural history gallery at Wollaton Hall, showcasing the importance of taxidermy in global conservation efforts. The gallery renovation was made possible through grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England.
An internationally renowned artist, Dr. Wigan crafted the sculptures small enough to fit inside a needle’s eye, demonstrating that “small things do matter.” The intricate artworks are visible when magnified.
Ron Inglis, chief operating officer of Nottingham City Council’s museums and galleries service, said, “We are thrilled we have been able to deliver the transformation of Wollaton Hall’s galleries and work in collaboration with Dr. Willard Wigan, which brings the Miniature Masterpieces to Wollaton Hall as part of the Disappearing Worlds collections.”
He added that the revamped galleries and free exhibition would ensure Wollaton Hall remains an enjoyable destination for all visitors, attracting attention on a national level.
The Disappearing World exhibition at Wollaton Hall serves as a timely reminder of the world’s pressing environmental issues. By showcasing Dr. Willard Wigan’s incredible microscopic sculptures, the exhibition inspires visitors to appreciate the importance of small things and the need for conservation. As a free event, it invites people from all walks of life to engage with this crucial message and contribute to protecting our planet’s biodiversity.
