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.
Events and performances by world-class artists responded as the herds moved, bringing together the worlds of arts and science in an urgent call for climate action.
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’.
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.
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.
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.
Want to make a difference in your own city? Explore Climate Actions to learn more.
Our movement stormed through Aarhus, Copenhagen, Stockholm and Trondheim, and scaled the breathtaking Jostedalsbreen Galcier, rallying communities and inspiring action along the way.
Even though THE HERDS first journey has come to an end, there are many ways you get involved - find out how on our GET INVOLVED page.
THE HERDS have reached the Arctic Circle, taking their final steps at the cliffs of Nordkapp, one of the northernmost points in the world. Their journey has drawn tens of thousands to the streets and millions more watched online. As they look out across the sea with nowhere left to run, we ask ourselves: who are WE in this story?
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!
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“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.”
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.”
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.”
Dakar, Senegal
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