Art / Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2021 exhibition to open at M Shed
The world-renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is set to return to Bristol.
Portraying some exceptional images of animal behaviour, spectacular species and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world, the exhibition will open at M Shed on Saturday, November 27 and run until June 5 2022.
First launched in 1956, when it attracted only 361 entries, the competition now receives more than 50,000 submissions from all over the world and is viewed by an international audience of millions.
is needed now More than ever
This year’s exhibition is on loan from the Natural History Museum in London and showcases 100 powerful photographs telling the story of a planet under pressure, giving us a deeper understanding of the issues facing nature and the actions we need to take to protect it.
The exhibition at M Shed is sponsored by Precision Resources Group with the accompanying engagement programme sponsored by UWE Bristol.
Dr Anna Piasecki, UWE Bristol’s head of school of creative and cultural industries, said: “We’re proud to be backing this prestigious exhibition, which will no doubt provide inspiration to those who visit, not least the younger generation, who are more conscious of nature and the environment than ever before.
“As a university, we hope to support and foster this interest in nature and arts. UWE Bristol already has close links with the city’s art and cultural institutions, and we’re delighted that our photography students will provide workshops to schoolchildren as part of our engagement with this exhibition.”
The competition received a record-breaking number of entries from 95 countries this year. Every entry is judged anonymously on its creativity, originality, and technical excellence by an international panel of industry experts.
Bristol-based photographer Sam Rowley took the winning photo for 2019’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year – photo by Sam Rowley
Dr Doug Gurr, director of the Natural History Museum said: “These extraordinary images showcase the rich diversity of life on Earth and spark curiosity and wonder.
“Telling the story of a planet under pressure, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition illuminates the urgent challenges we face and the collective action we need to take. This year’s inspiring exhibition will move and empower audiences to advocate for the natural world.”
This year’s award-winning images will embark on an international tour and be seen by well over a million people. Budding wildlife photographers can submit their images for next year’s competition until December 9.
Tickets for the exhibition are available via www.bristolmuseums.org.uk/m-shed/whats-on/wildlife-photographer-of-the-year-2021/ . Due to Covid-19 safety measures, pre-booking a time slot is recommended to guarantee entry. The exhibition and museum shop will be open after hours on Tuesday, December 7 for people who wish to visit at a quieter time.
Main photo © Jonny Armstrong, Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Read more: Bristol man wins Wildlife Photographer of the Year
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