The Grasslands Project at Wentworth Castle Gardens 

The Grasslands Project was inspired by THE HERDS (www.theherds.org), a groundbreaking public art and climate initiative brought to life by the team behind Little Amal. Lifesize puppets of animals journeyed through cities on a 20,000km journey from the Congo Basin to the Artic Circle, showing the stark reality of animals fleeing climate disaster. 

At Wentworth Castle Gardens, they wanted to approach things from a different angle and present the story of habitat creation. In April 2025 the Rangers planted a 20-hectare field of species-rich grassland in the south parkland. Once established, it will provide a vital restored habitat for pollinators like butterflies, as well as other insects, birds and animals.  

With the kind support of Art Fund and in partnership with Barnsley Museums, they were able to collaborate with artists and creatives in the local community to create two artistic responses to the work of nature restoration. 

The first: a Kaleidoscope of Butterflies, an installation on display in the gardens throughout July and August 2025. The butterflies – a mixture of native, migratory and fantastical butterflies – were created by artists Jo Veal and Patrick Amber in collaboration with local community groups, visitors, volunteers and staff. 

The second was a short film ‘In time’, created by the group Next Big Thing, young people aged between 14 & 25, who come from across Barnsley, from all walks of life. Shot at Wentworth Castle Gardens, the images and the lyrics are a profound reflection on the importance of time and nature. Watch the film here: ‘In Time’ by Next Big Thing – YouTube