An exhibition exploring the life and work of Cumbrian farmers is opening at Abbot Hall on 28 September. A photographic series captured by Johannes Pretorius will examine regenerative farming practices.  

Johannes 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. 

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 kilometers 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.  

Britain is now one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world: less than half of our biodiversity remains and one in six species in the UK is at risk of extinction. In facing the reality that three quarters of food crops rely on these very pollinators, farmers like James and his family are joining forces with nature. 

Rowan Phillimore, Co-director of The Gaia Foundation, states “70% of the UK is farmland. The potential for this to become the place where we support biodiversity, sequester carbon and address so many of the other problems we are facing is enormous. The arts have the power to speak to the heart. Apathy is such a big barrier, and hope activates.”  

In addition to Johannes’ photography, Abbot Hall will showcase work by students from The Queen Katherine School. After an inspiring visit to Strickley Farm, the students created pieces reflecting their response to regenerative farming. These will be on display in the exhibition. 

Photographer Johannes Pretorius, states “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, says “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.”  

Exhibition listing 

Johannes Pretorius 

Abbot Hall 

28 September – 28 December 2024 

10-4pm, Wednesday – Saturday 

Gallery admission includes access to all displays and exhibitions on show, including Johannes Pretorius, the Collection Galleries and Charmaine Watkiss: Legacy. 

Gallery admission tickets available to book online at www.abbothall.org.uk