Eco Champions Voices in the Woods
Orleans House Gallery - Cultural Reforesting
How can we renew our relationship with nature? This is the big question that artists explore through Cultural Reforesting. One artist noted: ‘You can only learn with the wind on your nose.’
We invite you to feel the wind on your nose and learn alongside us.
As you walk, you'll hear the voices of Richmond's young Eco Champions!
On 22 June 2026, students from primary schools across the Richmond upon Thames borough gathered at Orleans House Gallery for a summit built around the question: how can we renew our relationship with nature?
They spent the morning in the gallery grounds, in the woodlands and the Octagon Room - looking closely, getting their hands muddy, learning from Kew scientists, Habitats & Heritage, artist Sabrina Mantle and the Richmond Air Quality team.
As a culmination to the day, organised by the Richmond Climate and Sustainability team, and working with artist Natty Speaks, each child wrote a rap, a poem or a spoken message to the ecosystem here at Orleans, and chose to leave it here as a gift to the place.
So look up.
Notice the oak, the sage green leaves, the bees floating past, the minibeasts hiding under sticks.
As you go, you'll hear the young Eco Champions share what they noticed and what they hope for.
Press play, and enjoy the walk.
Read more about the Young Eco Champions and the summit
