On Sunday, 23rd March, the Mid Wales Arts Centre opened three captivating exhibitions—Portrait, Nature, and Curlew—showcasing a rich diversity of artwork. Curlew Connections Wales is thrilled to collaborate with the Centre in presenting this unique exhibition, which draws inspiration from the curlew, a bird at the heart of Wales’ environmental challenges.
The exhibition features a broad spectrum of mediums, including pottery, drawing, mixed media, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and more. As visitors explore the gallery, they are greeted by the evocative call of the curlew, guiding them through the space and fostering a deeper connection with this iconic bird. A special section of the exhibition highlights work created by local schools and workshops, alongside pieces submitted by university students.
Some of the artworks reflect a direct connection with the Curlew Connections Wales project, inspired by a talk given by Katie Appleby, the Curlew and People Officer for Montgomeryshire and North Radnorshire. Katie outlined the project’s efforts to safeguard the Welsh breeding curlew population and highlighted the work being done on the ground. Other works are drawn from artists’ personal memories and sightings of curlew, whether along the coast or in inland breeding grounds.
At the opening of the exhibition, Katie Appleby expressed her amazement at the enthusiastic response from artists: “I am blown away by the range of creative works inspired by curlew. It has been equally rewarding to speak with visitors and hear their own stories and memories of curlew—some dating back to their childhood. This highlights how deeply embedded the curlew is in our cultural history, and how crucial it is to protect them.”
The curlew, the UK’s largest wading bird, is facing an imminent threat of extinction as a breeding species in Wales, with projections suggesting that they could disappear by 2033. The Curlew Connections Wales Project, which operates across three Important Curlew Areas, is working closely with local farmers to monitor and protect the breeding curlew population, while addressing the specific pressures faced by these birds. To learn more about the project and its conservation efforts, visit: www.gwct.wales/curlew.
The exhibition is open to the public until 11th May 2025, Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm. If you are able to visit, we would love to hear your thoughts on the experience and your personal connection to the curlew.
Located: Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Powys, SY17 5SB
A splendid initiative, but where is it?
Hi Ian,
The “Plight of Curlew” Exhibition is at the Mid Wales Arts Centre, Caersws, Powys, SY17 5SB. From Sunday the 23rd March to 11 May 2025, (Wednesday to Sunday from 11am to 4pm)