ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Bodleian Libraries' Wonder of Birds explores humanity's avian bond

exhibition · 2026-08-04

The Bodleian Libraries have announced a major exhibition titled Wonder of Birds, which examines humanity's enduring relationship with birds through themes of awe and loss. The exhibition draws inspiration from The Book of Birds, a collaborative work by artist Jackie Morris and writer Robert Macfarlane, both of whom have won awards for their contributions. The book and exhibition lament the decline of bird populations while celebrating their unique characteristics and cultural significance. The exhibition features original artwork and prose from the book, displayed alongside items from the Bodleian's extensive collections. It is structured around 'Seven Wonders': nest, egg, beak, song, feather, flight, and migration. Wonder of Birds also highlights significant moments in ornithological history, including rare archival material, illustrations, and photography. The exhibition is scheduled to take place at the Bodleian Libraries, with details on dates and venue to be announced.

Key facts

  • The Bodleian Libraries announced the exhibition Wonder of Birds.
  • The exhibition explores humanity's relationship with birds through awe and loss.
  • It is inspired by The Book of Birds by Jackie Morris and Robert Macfarlane.
  • The exhibition features original artwork and prose from the book.
  • It is presented through 'Seven Wonders': nest, egg, beak, song, feather, flight, and migration.
  • The exhibition includes rare archival material from ornithological history.
  • The exhibition is held at the Bodleian Libraries.
  • The exhibition celebrates bird characteristics and cultural significance while lamenting their decline.

Entities

Artists

  • Jackie Morris
  • Robert Macfarlane

Institutions

  • Bodleian Libraries

Sources