Rosliston unveils art installation by INSTAR
A stunning new public artwork, ‘Nothing Exists Alone’, by the acclaimed artist collective INSTAR, is now on display at Rosliston Forestry Centre in the National Forest. Installed on 26 November, the installation is located just a short walk from the visitor reception and invites visitors to engage with themes of family, curiosity, rewilding, and the need for deeper connections to the natural world.
This thought-provoking piece consists of nine oak pillars arranged to create a dynamic, interactive experience. Featuring a pack of running wolves depicted in four separate images, the installation offers a continuous loop when viewed from different perspectives, encouraging reflection on our relationship with nature. The piece emphasises the interconnectedness of all living things, reminding us that everything in nature, including ourselves, serves a unique and meaningful purpose.
‘Nothing Exists Alone’ draws inspiration from folklore and fairy-tales, where wolves, forests, and wilder places have historically been seen as symbols of fear and mystery. Once widespread across South Derbyshire, wolves were driven to extinction due to hunting and habitat loss, leaving behind a sense of loss and longing for what once was. The artwork prompts important questions about what we have lost in the natural world and what needs to return to restore balance.
While many areas across the UK are seeing declines in biodiversity, the National Forest is bucking the trend. Over 8,000 hectares of habitat have been transformed, offering vital spaces where wildlife can thrive. Targeted conservation efforts are helping species like the Purple Emperor butterfly and dormice make a comeback, demonstrating that, with the right approach, ecosystems can be restored and made resilient to future changes.
‘Nothing Exists Alone’ was originally commissioned by the National Trust for a site in Northumberland where it had been displayed for the past couple of years. The refurbishment and re-homing of the stunning artwork has been funded by South Derbyshire District Council and the National Forest, reflecting their shared commitment to initiatives which creatively activate sites and provide new ways of engaging with woodlands and green spaces.
Robert Pearson, the leader of the council said “I am so thrilled to have this unique art piece installed in Rosliston Forestry Centre. Connecting to nature and switching off from digital devices is a really effective way in improving mental wellbeing and keeping active.”
‘Nothing Exists Alone’ also speaks to the growing disconnection between humanity and nature, a trend intensified by technology and the fast pace of modern life. In these times, returning to wild spaces offers a rare opportunity for peace, wonder, and calm, reminding us that we too are nature. By acknowledging our place within the environment, we can repair the damage we have done and look towards a brighter, more harmonious future.
The official launch of ‘Nothing Exists Alone’ took place on 10 December 2024, marking the 30th anniversary of the Rosliston Forestry Centre. This event offered visitors a chance to celebrate the installation in the context of the centre's longstanding dedication to conservation and environmental education.
The installation is open to the public and free to visit. It serves as a unique opportunity for individuals and families to explore the intersection of art and nature and reflect on the essential connections that bind us all.
13 December 2024