Imagine a world where the silent, often overlooked heroes of our ecosystems are celebrated in monumental bronze. That’s exactly what’s happening in Oxford North’s Canalside Park, where internationally acclaimed artist Alexandra Daisy Ginsberg is set to unveil her latest masterpiece, The Length of a Moment. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: this isn’t just any public art installation—it’s a tribute to moths, the unsung pollinators that play a vital role in our environment. Oxford City Council has given the green light to Thomas White Oxford, the development arm of St John’s College, to bring this visionary project to life, and it’s already sparking conversations about the intersection of art, science, and nature.
Nestled within the 2.94-acre Canalside Park, part of Oxford North’s innovative new district, the artwork will feature three towering bronze sculptures, each over two meters tall, rising gracefully from a wildflower meadow. These sculptures aren’t just aesthetically striking—they’re a testament to the invisible dance of moths as they seek out flowers to pollinate, guided by the scent plumes that drift through the air. Ginsberg, known for her thought-provoking work, has used computer simulations to capture this fleeting moment, transforming it into a permanent, cloud-like form that blends seamlessly with the park’s natural surroundings. And this is the part most people miss: by highlighting the role of moths, the artwork invites us to reflect on the intricate web of life that exists beyond our human-centric perspective.
Produced by Pangolin Editions, a Stroud-based foundry celebrated for its collaborations with leading contemporary artists, the sculptures are as much a technical marvel as they are a creative one. Pangolin’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every step of the process, from using renewable energy and HVO fuels to recycling materials, ensuring the artwork’s environmental footprint is as light as possible. This aligns perfectly with Oxford North’s Engage programme, which aims to connect communities with art, science, and nature through workshops, performances, and discussions. Partners like IF Oxford Science & Ideas Festival, Modern Art Oxford, Fusion Arts, and Creation Theatre will help bring these themes to life, making the artwork accessible to people of all ages.
But here’s the controversial part: while moths are essential pollinators, they often take a backseat to bees in public awareness. Ginsberg’s work challenges us to rethink our priorities and appreciate the lesser-known contributors to our ecosystems. Is this a bold statement or a necessary shift in perspective? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.**
Ginsberg herself reflects on the project, saying, ‘The Length of a Moment’ encourages us to envision how other species perceive the world. The sculptures reveal something beyond our senses—the fragrance of a flower shaped by a moth’s movement. Moths, though often overlooked, are critical to our ecosystems. By capturing a moment from their lives, I hope to inspire curiosity and empathy, prompting us to consider our interconnected environment. It’s a powerful message, and one that resonates deeply in a world where biodiversity is increasingly under threat.
Victoria Collett, Development Director at Thomas White Oxford, emphasizes the broader impact of the project: ‘Oxford North is about more than just buildings and green spaces; it’s about fostering culture and community. Public art is a cornerstone of our Engage programme, bridging connections between people and ideas. We’re thrilled to see *The Length of a Moment come to life as a unique landmark in Canalside Park, demonstrating how development can positively enrich the city and its residents.’* She also acknowledges the collaborative effort behind the project, thanking the Oxford North Public Art Steering Group, partner institutions, and local residents for their invaluable input.
Jordan Kaplan, Senior Art Producer at Contemporary Art Society Consultancy, adds, ‘This innovative design perfectly aligns with Oxford North’s vision of integrating world-class public art into its community. It’s a fusion of science, technology, ecology, and fine art that will inspire residents, visitors, and future generations.’ Ginsberg’s work will join another notable installation in Oxford North—Your Planetary Assembly by Olafur Eliasson, a mesmerizing constellation of colored glass spheres that play with light and shadow in Fallaize Park.
As Ginsberg’s sculptures prepare to take their place in Canalside Park, they not only celebrate the natural world but also challenge us to see it in new ways. So, here’s the question: How can art like this change the way we interact with our environment? And what role should public art play in highlighting the unseen heroes of our ecosystems? Share your thoughts below—we’re eager to hear your perspective!
