The Mantis Muse, a giant praying mantis sculpture made from fibreglass and steel with an animatronic head, is by renowned British artist David Shrigley and is on public display for the first time.
Visitors can see it at the Horniman from Tuesday 8 to Monday 21 April. The installation will be complemented by a programme of public events with a focus on engaging young audiences with art and creativity, including crafts, storytelling, screen printing and family yoga linked to animal movement.
The Mantis Muse was created in 2024 to emphasize the importance of art in education and advocate for increased funding for arts programs in British schools. It was originally installed for two weeks at David Shrigley’s former school, Beauchamp College in Oadby, Leicestershire.
Its installation at the Horniman complements the current family-friendly and educational exhibition The Robot Zoo, which features larger-than-life animals innovatively recreated using familiar machine parts and gadgets to reveal how their real-life counterparts see, eat, hunt and hide.
'Art has the power to surprise, to challenge, and to inspire curiosity — much like nature itself. With The Mantis Muse now being on show at the Horniman, I hope to encourage young minds to explore creativity fearlessly and remind us all that art deserves a place at the heart of education.’
'We are excited to welcome David Shrigley’s The Mantis Muse to the Horniman and can’t wait to see it take up residence in our historic Conservatory. David’s vision for the sculpture to inspire creative responses from young people is at the heart of the programme of activities our audiences can take part in over two weeks in the Easter holidays. The Mantis Muse and its message, paired with the iconic setting of our Victorian Conservatory, will offer a striking and inspiring space for everyone to enjoy.’
The Mantis Muse can be seen in the Horniman Conservatory from Tuesday 8 to Monday 21 April.
Lead image: The Mantis Muse and David Shrigley © Alun Callender