New art installation brings the superpowers of dragonflies to WWT Washington

A new art installation is officially opening at WWT Washington Wetland Centre in Tyne and Wear, to highlight the magical and extraordinary world of dragonflies.

Iridescence, by artists and architects Tony Broomhead and Nicky Kirk, is to be set over water and combines iridescent floating sculptures, composed of wing-like forms that mimic the beating rhythm of dragonfly wings. The installation will invite visitors to observe the beauty, grace and importance of dragonflies, and the wetlands they call home.

WWT Washington is a haven for 20 species of dragonflies and damselflies in the North East during the summer, and the new installation is a highlight of this summer’s inaugural WWT Dragonfly Festival, running until 22 September.  It also forms part of the centre’s 50th birthday celebrations.

Artist and architect Tony Broomhead said: “We are thrilled to have worked with WWT on this installation. It’s tailored to the unique characteristics of WWT Washington; a post-industrial setting that reveals nature’s ability to reclaim and transform. It has given us a powerful and distinct context for exploring the dragonfly’s adaptability and its role in vital wetland ecosystems.

“Both Nicky and I have long been captivated by dragonflies – nature’s aerial acrobats – whose shimmering wings and delicate presence embody transformation, balance, and resilience.  Iridescence is our response to their quiet power and is an installation that captures their magic in a wetland setting.

“Through this installation, we hope to inspire connection, awareness, and conservation through a shared experience that speaks to the wonder of nature and the urgency of protecting it.”

Centre Manager at WWT Washington Wetland Centre, Gill Pipes, said: “This commission was an opportunity to draw attention to the often-overlooked beauty and fragility of dragonflies and the environment they inhabit. It brings them into the light beautifully.

“Millions of visitors have enjoyed visiting WWT Washington Wetland Centre since it opened 50 years ago. We’re all about the local community, and our centre is designed to bring visitors closer to nature, and this new installation is another way to experience the superpowers of wetlands. We hope it will create further moments of pause and reflection during our Dragonfly Festival.”

An official unveiling day is planned on Wednesday 23 July, where both artists will be present delivering a creative workshop alongside poet Roisin Crowley Linton with local community groups.

The artists will talk about the work and the WWT Washington team will share the importance of managing the habitats in their wild reserve for dragonflies and all other wildlife.

The WWT Dragonfly Festival is currently running and invites festival goers and nature lovers to come together and explore the magical world of dragonflies, and the wetlands they call home, up-close.

Festival goers can enjoy Iridescence at the Dragonfly Festival until 22 September. For more information visit https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/washington/whats-on/dragonfly-festival-at-washington-wetland-centre