The Human Aquarium in Leeds (Photo: Tom Martin)
When: 15th – 28th February 2019
Where: St John’s shopping Centre, Leeds City Centre
£: Free
What is it?
The Human Aquarium is a new exhibition opening on Friday 15th February in Leeds. The exhibition will look at the world through the eyes of sea mammals. Using Mer-folk in place of marine mammals, it will delve into the world of aquariums, their inhabitants.
What it is like to spend your life in a tank? For the animals still in their natural habitat, the world’s oceans, what effect are single-use plastics having on their home? And why should we care?
Despite the success of documentaries such as Blackfish and The Blue Planet that provide information about captivity, single-use plastics and recycling, do we really know what we are buying into? Whether it’s purchasing a disposable bottle of water or a ticket to a marine park, do we consider how our choices affect the planet?
The Human Aquarium will be a family friendly and thought provoking, interactive event. Volunteers will engage with the public and discuss the hot topics, present sustainable alternatives and provide opportunities to learn about more ethical choices.
The Human Aquarium team will be taking over an empty shop unit to replicate an aquarium and all things aquatic, in Leeds City Centre. The exhibition will contain thought provoking photography, artworks, installations, films and interactive activities, developed by local Leeds artists and activists.
During the exhibition a sculpture will be created from single use plastics that the public are invited to add to. On 22nd February there will be an evening of environmental themed talks from some inspirational organisations, including The World Cetacean Alliance, Plastic-Free Me, Greenpeace Leeds, Love the Oceans and Zero Waste Leeds.
There will also be a variety of free, family friendly workshops, including Mermaid Mondays, Dolphin Scramble, Ocean Plastics Fish Making, Sculpting The Future and The Forever Octopus.
More info: humanaquarium.co.uk