Through the Microscope: secrets of Norfolk's changing landscape with Edible East

Join artists from Edible East as they journey into the microscopic world of Norfolk's landscape. Inspired by 2025 being the 400th anniversary of the use of the term 'microscope', this exhibition is part of an on-going residency at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse, supported by the John Innes Centre and The Centre for Microbial Interactions, Norwich.

From microscopic fungi that support life in the soil, to single-celled algae that overwhelm freshwater ecosystems, Edible East have responded to a range of historic and contemporary material, offering a visual and playful exploration of our relationship with the natural world.

Edible East are artists Jennie Pedley, Tara Sampy and horticulturalist Nik Thomson. They combine art, science and horticulture through exhibitions, workshops and consultancy for a healthy, sustainable future.

Alongside large-scale, mixed media artworks, using print, installation and shadow-theatre techniques, visitors will be able to see historical material on loan from the John Innes Foundation Historical Collections. This includes a replica seventeenth century 'simple microscope' designed by Anthonie van Leeuwenhoek (1632 - 1723), known as the father of microbiology, and stunning illustrations in seventeenth century rare books by pioneers of plant anatomy.

This project is supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and by Norfolk County Council.

The exhibition is located in the First Floor Exhibition Gallery, with additional locations across the site throughout the year.

Banner image credit: 'Free floating' [detail] © Tara Sampy (Edible East) 2025.