Just a couple of miles north of Gloucester stands a truly unique institution: Nature in Art, the world’s first museum and art gallery entirely dedicated to fine, decorative, and applied art inspired by nature. Located at Wallsworth Hall in Twigworth (GL2 9PA), this fascinating place brings together art, environmental awareness, and heritage in a way that appeals to serious art lovers, families, and nature enthusiasts alike.
A Unique Mission and Setting
Nature in Art is run by the Nature in Art Trust, a registered charity founded in 1982 (then known as the “Society for Wildlife Art of the Nations”). Their ambition was simple yet bold: to create a self‑sustaining museum that celebrates artistic responses to nature in all its forms and styles.
The gallery is housed in Wallsworth Hall, a fine Georgian mansion dating from the mid-1700s. The house itself is part of the experience: its elegant architecture and landscaped grounds give the museum a graceful, historic atmosphere. In fact, this building was featured in Simon Jenkins’s England’s 1,000 Best Houses.
An Extraordinary and Diverse Collection
One of Nature in Art’s most compelling features is its collection, which spans a staggering 1,500 years, encompasses more than 60 countries, and includes work by over 600 artists. The range of styles and media is extraordinarily broad: you’ll find paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, glasswork, and much more—everything from intricate watercolours and wildlife realism to modern abstract interpretations.
The museum deliberately includes both historic and contemporary works. Among its artists are well-known names such as Charles Tunnicliffe, David Shepherd, Peter Scott, and Eric Ennion, but the gallery also features surprising pieces by Pablo Picasso and decorative work by René Lalique. It’s this blending of styles and eras that makes visiting Nature in Art such a rich and rewarding experience.
One particularly striking piece in the collection is Noah and the Animals Entering the Ark by Jan van Kessel the Younger (1654–1708), a wonderfully detailed and symbolic Baroque work. On the other end of the spectrum, there is The Road to Issel by Michael Porter, a contemporary work that edges toward abstraction.
Exhibitions and Artists-in-Residence
Beyond the permanent collection, Nature in Art runs a vibrant and ever-changing exhibition programme. They usually host around 15–18 special exhibitions per year, showcasing borrowed works as well as pieces from their own collection. These exhibitions span an impressive variety of themes—from wildlife photography and botanical art to abstract interpretations of nature.
A particularly special component of the museum is its Artist-in-Residence Programme, which runs from February through November. Each week, a different artist works in the museum’s studio, and visitors may be able to watch them create—from glass-blowing or wood‑carving to textile art or painting. It’s a rare opportunity to witness creative processes up close, and sometimes to chat with the artist as they work.
Gardens, Sculpture, and Outdoor Art
Nature in Art is not just about what’s inside the galleries—its sculpture garden is a peaceful, green space full of flora, insect habitats, and carefully placed artworks. Visitors can explore sculptures set among flowers, insect hotels, and ponds. There’s also a small play area for children, making the garden a welcoming spot for families.
The garden is freely accessible, even if you don’t go into the museum, allowing a peaceful retreat where nature and art meet in gentle harmony. Benches and picnic tables are dotted around, providing perfect little rest spots for contemplation or photography.
Visitor Experience
When you visit Nature in Art, you enter a world where nature and creativity merge. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday and on bank holidays, from 10am until 5pm (4pm in the winter months).
The site includes a coffee shop serving light meals, cakes, and refreshments—great for relaxing after a gallery walk. There’s also a gift shop stocked with art-inspired items, books, cards, and unique nature-themed gifts.
Accessibility is well considered: there’s ramped access, a lift inside the building, accessible toilets, and two wheelchairs available for loan.
Why Nature in Art Is Important
- Specialist Focus: It’s the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to art inspired by nature.
- Artistic Diversity: By collecting in a wide range of media and styles—from ancient to contemporary—the museum highlights how nature has inspired artists across cultures and histories.
- Educational Value: With its interactive programmes, artist residencies, handling boxes, and family activities, it helps visitors of all ages understand and appreciate the creative responses to the natural world.
- Conservation & Awareness: By celebrating art inspired by nature, the museum subtly encourages environmental awareness and conservation. Through its exhibitions and events, it reinforces the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
- Cultural Landmark: Wallsworth Hall itself is a historic gem, and the museum’s continued operation (without guaranteed public or private funding) is a testament to the passion of its supporters.
Events and Community Activities
Nature in Art hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year. These include:
- Craft Fairs: Twice a year the museum holds a well-loved Craft Fair featuring handmade works—from ceramics and jewelry to textiles and illustrations.
- Family Days & Workshops: During school holidays, themed family activity sessions encourage children to explore nature through hands-on art.
- Talks, Courses, and Mini-Markets: Regular art courses, lectures about wildlife art, and small craft markets help engage the community and support emerging artists.
- Annual Exhibitions: The museum often features touring exhibitions and special shows, for example on wildlife photography, conservation, textile art, or culturally inspired nature themes.
These events help make Nature in Art a living, breathing place rather than just a static gallery.
Highlight Works and Artists
Some of the most striking works in Nature in Art’s collection include:
- Jan van Kessel the Younger — Noah and the Animals Entering the Ark, a detailed and symbolic Baroque painting.
- Michael Porter — The Road to Issel, a modern abstract interpretation that shows how nature can inspire more conceptual art.
- Charles Tunnicliffe, Peter Scott, and David Shepherd — wildlife artists whose naturalistic paintings capture animals with great sensitivity.
- René Lalique — decorative glasswork inspired by organic forms and nature motifs.
- Pablo Picasso — it may surprise many, but this gallery even includes works by Picasso, demonstrating the wide reach of nature as an artistic muse.
The Future of Nature in Art
As a charitable, independent museum, Nature in Art relies heavily on visitor support, memberships, and donations to continue its mission. Nature In Art It does not currently receive guaranteed ongoing public or private funding, which makes its continued success a testament to its dedicated supporters and the appeal of its unique mission.
The museum continues to evolve: new exhibitions, fresh acquisitions, and regular community engagement ensure it remains relevant. With plans for ongoing events, educational programmes, and collaborations, Nature in Art is not only preserving the artistic heritage of nature but also inspiring future generations of artists, environmentalists, and visitors.
Why You Should Visit Nature in Art
- It’s Inspirational: For anyone interested in nature, art, or both, this gallery offers a profound experience. The works on display provoke reflection, wonder, and appreciation.
- It’s Family-Friendly: With its handling boxes, sculpture garden, children’s trails, and workshops, it’s an ideal place for a family outing that mixes creativity with learning.
- It’s Peaceful and Beautiful: The Georgian mansion and surrounding gardens are calm and serene—a perfect escape from the bustle of Gloucester.
- It’s Educational: Learn about art techniques, wildlife, conservation, and cultural traditions through a variety of media and activities.
- It’s Community-Oriented: You may get to meet artists at work, participate in craft fairs, or take part in courses or talks.
Conclusion
Nature in Art is a remarkable and rare institution. In a world that often separates art and the natural environment, it unites them in celebration. Through its rich collection, inspiring exhibitions, artist residencies, and immersive garden, the museum fosters a deep connection between creativity and the natural world. It reminds us how nature has shaped human imagination across centuries, and how art, in turn, can deepen our appreciation for the delicate beauty of our planet.
If you’re visiting Gloucester or the surrounding region, Nature in Art is not just worth a stop—it’s a place to slow down, reflect, and see the beauty of the world through the eyes of artists from every corner of the globe.
