Our own Peel Park marks its 180th anniversary this autumn and is the inspiration for several artists. Laura Daly’s The Storm Cone reimagines the site of the former bandstand and its rich history through an augmented reality app; whilst Liam Ratcliffe’s photography captures the ever-changing seasons and skylines over the past year. Alumna Lizzie King’s postcards celebrate the park as a place of rest and escape – and once even a popular holiday destination!

Several projects highlight relationships between people, place and sense of community. Hayley Suviste’s work with local charity Salford Loaves and Fishes responds to the River Irwell through printmaking, writing and audio-visual work; whilst Adelina Court’s illustrations capture the development of a new community garden in Eccles. Pottery inspired by natural forms is generously loaned from START, a local mental health charity that uses creativity to improve lives.

Further works reflect on personal connections with nature. Graduate Jack Jameson considers the natural world through queer ecology; and current BA Photography student Alyssa Fort reveals the world in intimate detail through microscopic photography. The exhibition also features a selection of works from the University Art Collection, celebrating the enduring joy and inspiration that nature offers.

We welcome you to spend time in the gallery to rest and unwind, and consider how connecting with places of nature might support your own inspiration and wellbeing. If you’d like to find out more, there are links below and on our gallery labels to some of our highlighted projects and wider programmes.