Belsay Hall displays 400 ceramic squirrels to highlight conservation

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 06:08 · Archive

A 400-ceramic-squirrel installation opened at Belsay Hall in Northumberland to explore threats to red squirrels.

An installation of 400 ceramic squirrels has opened at Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in Northumberland from October 3 to November 1. Titled Scurry and created by sculptor Dan Gough, the display explores the challenges facing native red squirrels and themes of conservation and environmental impact.

The installation originally comprised 2,000 sculptures and was Gough's winning entry for the Gillian Dickinson North East Young Sculptor of the Year Award in 2016. A spokesperson said the work 'invites visitors to reflect on how we shape the world around us, the unintended consequences of changing our natural world, and the grey choices we make to conserve it'.

Visitors are encouraged to use their senses to discover the display. The scent of candyfloss marks the starting point of the trail, which winds through East Quarry Meadow where a vibrant red path of ceramic squirrels weaves between trees and greenery. Entry to Scurry is included with standard admission to Belsay Hall.

How it is being reported

• 400 ceramic squirrels create a striking trail at Northumberland's Belsay estateA bright red trail of ceramic squirrels is taking over a historic Northumberland estate.Hexham Courant · 16 Oct, 05:00
• Belsay Hall welcomes 400 ceramic squirrels in response to challenges facing red squirrelsThis October, 400 ceramic squirrels have made their home in the historic grounds of Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in response to the challenges facing native red squirrels.Morpeth Herald · 15 Oct, 13:57

In this story: Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens · Northumberland · Dan Gough · English Heritage

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