Friday 2nd September 2022 to Sunday 9th October 2022

Venue: Chawton House

Inspired by the natural environment of the local area, Rachel Hudson’s exhibition From the Margins will transfer to Chawton House for the month of September.

From barn owls to brown hares, to harvest mice and hairstreak butterflies, this display takes you on a journey of discovery to meet iconic farmland species that live here in the South Downs. It is a collaboration between natural history illustrator, Rachel Hudson, and the Selborne Landscape Partnership in Hampshire. Hudson’s artwork champions species we are in danger of losing and shows how restoration of field margins- from hedgerows to wildflower strips- is making a positive difference. It is also a call to action to support local farmers who are supporting wildlife, many of whom are members of the Selborne Landscape Partnership.

About Rachel Hudson 

Rachel Hudson is an illustrator based in Four Marks, Hampshire. She is known for her lively and authentic natural history illustrations for information, greetings cards, publishing, packaging and editorial. Clients include BBC Wildlife Magazine, Bloomsbury Publishing, Butterfly Conservation, the National Trust and The Wildlife Trusts. Her first children’s book 100 Endangered Species was published in 2021.

Find out more about Rachel Hudson

Farmers and conservationists caring for our local landscape 

The Selborne Landscape Partnership (SLP) is a cluster of 27 farmers and conservationists restoring nature across the countryside around and beyond Chawton House. Over the past seven years, SLP members have been working together on a more joined-up approach to improve habitats by establishing larger wildlife corridors. By understanding the needs of key target species, a mosaic of nature-rich areas has been created and enhanced to provide year-round food and homes for wildlife. Butterflies, bees, birds, mammals and amphibians all are cared for using a variety of conservation methods including hedgerow management with flower and seed-rich margins. Alongside this work, the SLP’s team of 35 active, local volunteers have been observing and recording the wildlife to prove that this collaborative landscape-style conservation works.

More information about the SLP’s projects can be found on their Instagram @selbornelandscape or on their website.