UW Biodiversity Gallery to Feature Tactile Art Exploring Biodiversity Loss

The University of Wyoming Biodiversity Institute will feature "Fabrication/Dissemination," a new exhibition by Michelle Weschler, in the Berry Biodiversity Center's Biodiversity Gallery Tuesday, Oct. 26, through Friday, Dec. 11.

The exhibition brings biodiversity and conservation data into the tactile world through metal, wood and fiber arts. The works explore biodiversity loss over time and the field of conservation biology, with several pieces created in collaboration with Isabella Buongiorno. Some of the artwork focuses specifically on invertebrates -- such as insects and other small organisms -- that Weschler, a UW assistant research scientist and Wyoming Natural Diversity Database (WYNDD) curator, studies and curates through her work with WYNDD.

"I began metalsmithing in the spring semester of 2025 and instantly wanted to explore how I could incorporate concepts from my job as an invertebrate zoologist and curator into the art form," Weschler says. "I've found I enjoy making plots in metal over making plots in Program R."

One of Weschler's works that will be part of the exhibition is a pendant made to resemble a camping tent. It is made entirely from brass sheet and wire. The lengths of chain can be added or removed, making it wearable on the wrist, ankle or neck.

"The idea was to be able to 'pack up' the tent and move it to different spots on the body. The prompt for the project also focused on conveying a sense of place," she says. "As someone who works in biodiversity and conservation research, my summers often consist of field work, and my tent is my home for weeks at a time. This piece is a representation of that lifestyle and how important our tents are."

Through its Biodiversity Gallery, the Biodiversity Institute aims to showcase new and creative approaches to learning about biodiversity and conservation, particularly through the work of local artists. The gallery can feature a wide range of mediums, from paintings, photography and sculpture to films and outdoor artwork. The goal is to encourage visitors to think about biodiversity in ways that extend beyond traditional scientific research.

The gallery has quickly become a popular public-facing space within the Berry Center. Exhibitions for 2026 and 2027 filled soon after applications opened, and the Biodiversity Institute is now accepting applications for 2028 exhibitions.

Artists selected for the gallery also have the opportunity to host an opening reception for their supporters, students and the public, providing an opportunity to share their work and the ideas behind their exhibition.

The "Fabrication/Dissemination" exhibition will be available for the public and UW students to view during regular Berry Center business hours from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays.

For more information about the Biodiversity Gallery or to inquire about exhibiting in 2028, go to the UW Biodiversity Institute website at www.wyomingbiodiversity.org/index.php/outreach/exhibition.