Could an alternative banana plant help prevent world hunger? Is the ‘wood wide web’ the key to combating climate change?
Join us this summer for Nourish at Wakehurst, Kew’s wild botanic garden in Sussex, and embark on a journey through spectacular, immersive artworks inspired by Kew’s world-leading international science projects.
Discover the future of plants and food, and nourish your mind and body as you encounter five striking new installations in our wild landscape. Families can enjoy the Nourish children’s trail – perfect for little explorers.
Plus, with interactive workshops and special evening events, there’s a whole host of extra activities to enjoy this summer.
Travel through our wild landscape and encounter live music and performances, from African drummers and dancers to a ukulele player at Nourish After Hours.
The installations
Isla
Experience the power of rainfall like never before with artist John Grade’s monumental sculpture.
24 feet tall and made from 4,000 individual resin pieces, this towering artwork hangs suspended over the steep ravine of Westwood Valley.
In a stunning display inspired by the South American plant frailejón, the installation collects and releases rainwater, moving in tune with the elements.
The False Banana Pavilion
Explore Ethiopia via Bethlehem Wood with a celebration of ‘the tree against hunger’ (otherwise know as enset), created by Flea Folly Architects.
A wild relative of our domesticated banana, enset is a staple crop for 20 million people in Ethiopia, with some incredible climate-resilient qualities.
Step inside the pavilion and discover the power and potential of this remarkable plant.
Hidden Dimension
Artist Malgorzata Lisiecka takes us into the mysterious world of underground fungal networks, inspired by Kew’s work in Colombia.
As you enter the gardens you’ll see the first of Lisiecka’s immersive willow and textile sculptures, which mirror the thread-like networks of fungi beneath our feet.
There are more to discover nestled deep within the Himalayan Glade, bringing these vital, hidden communities out into the light.
Seed Feast
A playful installation by artist Helen Law draws on the work of Kew with partners in the Caucasus, conserving the seeds of wild fruit and nut species.
At a giant wooden table, edible plants grow up from below and colourful seed-like structures are suspended above, casting intricate shadows all around.
Law’s artwork considers the journey from seed to plate – and the fundamental role nature plays in supporting all human life.
México Mágico
Take a moment to rest and reflect in the Water Gardens with a new sound installation by audio-visual artist Augustine Leudar.
Close your eyes and be transported to the forests of Mexico as the sounds of native birds, insects and animals mingle with the folk music of Veracruz, transforming an acre of Wakehurst’s landscape into a sanctuary of calm.
Family fun at Wakehurst
School’s out! Explore, run free and learn about science and nature at Wakehurst this summer.