An exhibition exploring the life and work of a Cumbrian farmer will open later this month.
The photographs by Johannes Pretorius will be on display at Abbot Hall in Kendal from September 28.
The display at Abbot Hall will reveal the story of Kendal farmer James Robinson and his 300-acre organic farm, Strickley.
Three generations of the Robinson family work on the farm, managing kilometres of species-rich hedgerows and rewilding woodlands and wetlands.
These habitats increase biodiversity by nurturing interdependent species of microorganisms, plants, and animals. The Robinsons are developing restorative approaches that offer solutions for a resilient future.
Pretorius is a Lancaster-based photographer whose work explores the relationship between people, places, and the social contexts in which they live and work.
His projects have been supported by Arts Council England, The Gaia Foundation, and Open Eye Gallery.
In 2024, he was commissioned to document three generations of the Robinson family and their farming practices, as part of We Feed The UK, a major arts project developed by the Gaia Foundation.
In addition to Johannes’ photography, Abbot Hall will showcase work by students from The Queen Katherine School.
After a visit to Strickley Farm, students created pieces reflecting their response to regenerative farming. These will be on display in the exhibition.
Pretorius said: “I hope to help the public and policy makers recognise the great potential of farms as sites for biodiversity renewal, by showing how it is possible to reconcile nature-friendly practices with economic incentives on a working farm.”
Helen Stalker, associate head of curatorial and engagement, said: “Abbot Hall’s programme is dedicated to exploring the themes of landscape and identity.
“This extraordinary Cumbrian landscape we are situated in, holds an array of stories of innovation and nature activism. Johannes’ exhibition tells a great local story with a global resonance.”
