What is THE HERDS?

A groundbreaking public art and climate initiative designed to inspire action and renew our bond with the natural world. From April to August 2025, life-size puppet animals stormed through city centers on a 20,000km journey from Kinshasa in the Congo Basin to Nordkapp in the Arctic Circle, fleeing climate disaster.

Following their monumental first journey through Africa and Europe, The Herds now continue their stampede across the world, arriving in Rotterdam as part of the ICAF Festival.

Central Africa

THE HERDS journey began in Kinshasa, DRC, on the banks of the mighty Congo River. In April 2025 they emerged from the forests of the Congo Basin - the ‘lungs of the world’.

West Africa

Next, THE HERDS crashed into one of the world’s fastest growing metropolis cities - Lagos, Nigeria - and on to the vibrant streets of Dakar, Senegal. Leading artists from West Africa offered their unique urgent response to the climate crisis.

North Africa

Battling the scorching heat, our life-sized animal puppets trekked across Marrakesh and Casablanca, crashing through city centres, impossible to ignore.

Collaborating with passionate partners, we ignited conversations and demanded action on climate change.

Europe

THE HERDS forged a powerful path through the sun-drenched avenues of San Fernando, Madrid, Marseille, Paris and Venice and on to the bustling streets of London and Greater Manchester. Thousands met us in the streets to experience public art that comes face to face with the climate crisis.

Scandinavia and Arctic

Our movement stormed through Aarhus, Copenhagen, Stockholm and Trondheim, and scaled the breathtaking Jostedalsbreen Galcier, rallying communities and inspiring action along the way. Finally, the animals reached the Arctic Circle, at the cliffs of Nordkapp.

AND BEYOND

THE HERDS now continue their stampede across the world. They will first arrive in Rotterdam as part of the ICAF Festival before visiting festivals and events across the world.

From Central Africa to the Arctic Circle

Be Part of the Action!

Explore ways to engage with THE HERDS. Take climate action, or create your own animal puppet at home.

Wherever you are, let the wildness in and take action!

Get Involved

Our Partners

“The HERDS helps us visualise the urgency of the climate and biodiversity crisis, and allows audience members to feel a deep sense of connection to this planet and the beings that inhabit it.”

Tori Tsui

Climate Activist

“THE HERDS demonstrates what we can accomplish when creativity meets a steadfast commitment to justice. It embodies the transformative potential of the arts, perfectly aligning with our dedication to a just, equitable and sustainable world.”

Kumi Naidoo

Climate and Human Rights Activist and President of the Fossil Fuel Non Proliferation Treaty Initiative

“This is the right project at the right time. It gives us the opportunity to share our local stories on a global level. Our stories will travel with the animals out into the world.”

Ecole des Sables

Dakar, Senegal