Sustainability in our Exhibitions
Every exhibition at The Hepworth Wakefield involves a complex set of decisions from planning and production to transport and installation. The exhibitions team is committed to reducing environmental impact across these areas, while upholding the highest standards of curatorial excellence, conservation, and visitor experience.
What we're Doing
Reusing and Repurposing materials
Display structures such as plinths, platforms, and partition walls are designed for multiple use. Where possible, elements are repainted, repaired, and adapted across successive exhibitions. This helps extending their lifespan and reducing material waste.
Minimising freight emissions
We prioritise road over air transport and consolidate shipments to reduce environmental impact. International loans are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and increasing emphasis is placed on sourcing works from UK-based lenders to shorten travel distances.
Sourcing responsibly for design and build
When new materials are needed, environmental performance guides procurement. This includes using FSC-certified timber, low-VOC paints, and careful planning to avoid over-ordering and minimise offcuts.
Designing sustainable retail ranges
Exhibition merchandise is developed in-house, with production typically based in the UK. Recycled and low-waste materials are prioritised, and suppliers are selected for both their environmental standards and proximity to the gallery.
Collaborating across departments
Sustainability is embedded throughout the exhibition process, from lighting decisions to interpretation. The exhibitions team works closely with estates, learning and commercial teams to ensure alignment from concept to delivery.
The Challenge and What's Next?
Exhibition curation involves non-negotiable environmental controls, complex logistics, and, at times, short lead times. Balancing environmental responsibility with artistic ambition and institutional standards requires ongoing dialogue, creativity and adaptability.
Over the next year, our focus will be on deepening sustainable practice and strengthening cross-team planning:
Expanding the inventory of reusable elements
Investment in modular and adaptable structures will reduce reliance on bespoke fabrication and allow for greater material reuse across future exhibitions.
Developing internal sustainability guidance
Curators, technicians and designers will be supported with guidance on low-impact materials, lighting options, and transport choices, to embed sustainability at the earliest planning stages.
Reducing single-use packaging and installation waste
Working with installers and suppliers, we will identify alternatives to single-use wrapping, explore reuse schemes, and improve waste separation during installs and removal.
