The Wellcome Collection in London will present **Thirst: In Search of Freshwater** from 26 June 2025 to 1 February 2026. Featuring over 125 artefacts in five thematic areas, the exhibition examines the significance of freshwater, the consequences of its mismanagement, and promotes hope through community-led solutions. Free admission and event details will follow.
From 26 June 2025, London’s Wellcome Collection will host the groundbreaking exhibition, Thirst: In Search of Freshwater. Focused on the vital role of freshwater across diverse global landscapes, it will feature over 125 objects, intertwining historical artefacts with contemporary works. The exhibition addresses various aspects of water including health, community, ecosystems, and cultural significance.
Thirst: In Search of Freshwater is curated into five themes: Aridity, Rain, Glaciers, Surface Water, and Groundwater. Visitors can explore the environmental, social, and cultural meanings behind each condition through a blend of artefacts from different disciplines and historical contexts, providing a comprehensive understanding of humanity’s relationship with freshwater.
The exhibition highlights the dire consequences of water mismanagement, such as the spread of diseases and the impacts of climate change, while also showcasing solutions driven by communities worldwide. Moreover, sustainable design practices will be employed throughout the exhibition, using innovative materials like wetland reed fibres, hemp, and London clay ceramics.
The accompanying book, featuring a foreword by Robert Macfarlane and contributions from notable writers like Elif Shafak, will delve into the cultural narratives connected to freshwater.
Each section of the exhibition conveys unique themes:
– Aridity explores drought and conflict, featuring ancient Sumerian poetry alongside a contemporary project on Moroccan oases.
– Rain presents the dualities of flooding and seasonal relief through photography and video installations, capturing community resilience.
– Glaciers addresses the impact of glacial melt on communities, showcasing installations that illustrate the consequences of climate change.
– Surface Water highlights the importance of rivers and human-made systems, including innovative wastewater treatment projects.
– Groundwater examines often unseen freshwater sources with historical context, including a tribute to Mary Woolaston and speculative future projects.
A range of contemporary artists will feature prominently, including Gideon Mendel, Karan Shrestha, and the Raqs Media Collective, showcasing both established and emerging works.
Thirst: In Search of Freshwater will be freely accessible from Tuesday to Sunday, with specific event details forthcoming. The venue, located at the Wellcome Collection, is situated at 183 Euston Road, London NW1 2BE.
The **Thirst: In Search of Freshwater** exhibition at the Wellcome Collection will tackle critical themes surrounding global water security through a fusion of history and contemporary artistry. By addressing the multifaceted roles of freshwater in various contexts, the exhibition aims to inspire awareness and strategies for sustainable water management.
Original Source: www.countryandtownhouse.com