Earthbound. Worms, Soil, Decay. An Immersive Exploration of Life Beneath Our Feet.

Running from 28 June to 14 September 2025, the exhibition Earthbound. Worms, Soil, Decay explores the vital, yet often overlooked, role of soils in sustaining life on Earth, with a focus on earthworms as key agents and ambassadors of soil health. In light of the ongoing ecological crisis, Earthbound encourages a deeper connection to the underground world and its non-human inhabitants, advocating for mindful stewardship. Earthworms – often dismissed due to their slimy appearance – are essential to soil fertility but face numerous threats, including soil artificialisation, shrinking areas of arable land, and intensive agricultural practices such as compaction and pesticide use. Pollution from acid rain and industrial activity further endangers these crucial creatures.

Earthbound is envisioned as a multidisciplinary artistic and ecological initiative that highlights the interconnectedness and fundamental role of decay and regeneration in biological cycles. It also serves as a meditation on the impermanence of human existence, reminding us that we, too, are woven into the rhythms of life, death, and decay. The exhibition showcases works by a wide array of artists and designers, including Merve Bektaş (Turkey), Grandeza Studio + Locument (Spain/Portugal/Poland), Natalie Taylor (Scotland), Francisca Álvarez Sánchez (Chile), and Merle Bergers (the Netherlands). The artworks are accompanied by a selection of books and archival materials on soil and earthworms, including a book written by Charles Darwin in 1881 on the subject.

Earthbound was developed with a strong focus on mediation, aiming to foster curiosity and care for the soil through sensory engagement – inviting visitors, especially children, to see, smell, and hear the underground world. The exhibition is accompanied by a rich and varied programme of events designed to further explore the themes of soil and regeneration. Conceived in collaboration with the mediation team at Bridderhaus, the programme runs throughout the summer, beginning with a vibrant OpenHaus on 28 June. Activities range from composting and natural serigraphy workshops, to performances by food designer Céline Pelcé, field recordist Pablo “Rana” Diserens, and storyteller Luisa Bevilacqua. Visitors can also take part in a grounding yoga flow with Sarah, or join a masterclass with illustrator Francisca Álvarez Sánchez – among many other inspiring encounters. Be sure to check the agenda for full details.

Earthbound. Worms, Soil, Decay is an artistic project conceived by d-o-t-s (Laura Drouet / Olivier Lacrouts) following an invitation from Valérie Tholl, Head of art mediation & publics engagement at Bridderhaus. The exhibition was produced collectively during a two-week residency held by d-o-t-s, Aglaë Miguel, Vicent Orts, and Dana Zoutman at Bridderhaus from 17th to 30th March 2025.

Every Sunday from 06.07 to 14.09.2025 from 9am to 1pm.

Free of charge | No booking required.