New Film Installation Celebrates Tolson Museum’s Bird Room Centenary

Posted By: KLTVon: April 21, 2025In: Cultural Leaders Group TV, Environment, News

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By KLTV Newsdesk –

‘A Natural History of Nest Building’ explores creativity, conservation, and our connection to the natural world

A thought-provoking film installation that delves into the intricate world of bird nest building is now on display at Tolson Museum, marking the upcoming centenary of the museum’s much-loved Bird Room.

A Creative Conversation Between Art and Nature

The exhibition, titled A Natural History of Nest Building, features a unique three-screen video installation in which artist Andy Holden engages in a warm and insightful dialogue with his father, Peter Holden, a bird expert.

Together, they explore the many forms and functions of bird nests, the materials used, and the inherited behaviours involved in building them.

Their conversation weaves together humour and reflection, drawing surprising parallels between nest construction and artistic creativity.

The film also offers a tender look at parent-child relationships, echoing the themes of care and craftsmanship found in the nests themselves.

Honouring a Century of Birdwatching Heritage

The film’s setting is particularly poignant, as Tolson Museum’s Bird Room—designed in 1925 by former curator and ornithologist Seth Lister Mosley (1848–1929)—approaches its 100th anniversary later this year.

Many of the birds and nests featured in the film are part of the historic Bird Room’s original collection.

Councillor Carole Pattison, Leader of Kirklees Council and Cabinet Member for Culture, praised the exhibition: “The Tolson Museum, with its fascinating Bird Room, is the perfect place to showcase A Natural History of Nest Building.

“Even if we don’t always notice them, birds are a part of our everyday lives – whether hearing the dawn chorus at sunrise, feeding garden birds, or waving away seagulls from our chips at the seaside; they are always nearby.

“This film, along with the Bird Room, provides the opportunity to pause and take a closer look at how we understand our relationship with birds and their nests – something that Seth Lister Mosley was interested in a hundred years ago.

“I’m delighted that residents can enjoy this free and accessible exhibition right on their doorstep.”

Art with a Conservation Message

The installation also raises important environmental themes, spotlighting how climate change is contributing to the decline of both bird populations and nesting behaviours.

Through its creative lens, the film invites viewers to consider the wider implications of habitat loss and conservation challenges.

Produced by Artangel, the film has previously featured at high-profile venues including The Tate and Turner Contemporary, where it received acclaim for its imaginative and emotionally resonant storytelling.