The Saddest Show on Earth

As another great contribution to conservation, Urban Rhino spirits is sponsoring a wonderful and thought-provoking new exhibition by acclaimed contemporary artist Sophie Green.

Sophie is exhibiting her latest collection of work; ‘Commodities’ in the haunting art exhibition, ‘The Saddest Show on Earth’ – and Urban Rhino are proud to announce our spirits will be served at the launch to help VIP guests enjoy the occasion.

This provocative body of work unpacks themes of consumerism, exploitation, and environmental despair with each hyper-realistic painting serving as a mirror to our shared complicity.

It’s a message completely in tune with the Urban Rhino philosophy which highlights the effects of urbanisation and consumerism on the animal kingdom, specifically the rhino populations decimated by poaching.

Urban Rhino spirits echoes Sophie’s words when she says: “A world in which we exhibit the most beautiful creatures on this planet on plinths like exhibits in a museum is sadly not too far removed from the world we currently live in – a world where we use animals and nature for our food, entertainment, fashion and labour. I have always aimed to use my artwork to connect people with nature and inspire them to make a difference.

“But I have also always been fascinated by the relationship between humans and animals. I would like to introduce you to my latest collection of work; an exploration of animals as ‘Commodities’. This is not a celebration of nature. This is wildlife void of both wild and life.”

The Saddest Show on Earth aims to raise awareness and money for conservation causes worldwide, including, but not limited to, work undertaken by The Born Free Foundation .

​Sophie Green is a contemporary artist, conservationist and broadcaster, known for her hyper-realistic paintings. Green’s work, described by National Geographic as a bridge ‘between photography and reality’, often serves as a cultural critique and raises awareness for issues surrounding animal welfare and the environment.

Green is outspoken in her views on using art to raise awareness for conservation issues. In an interview with CNN, Green stated that she wanted her artwork to connect people with nature. She is an ambassador of the Jane Goodall Institute UK and has raised large sums of money for conservation causes through her art. Notable highlights of Green’s career include showcasing her artwork at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow and the Houses of Parliament, as well as co-hosting the Wildlife Artist of the Year awards multiple years running alongside actor Robert Lindsay.

Location: The Vaults, Leake Street Arches, London, SE1 7NN

FREE ENTRY - no booking required

Optional charitable donation will be available at the door

18th - 30th March 2025

Open daily: 11.00 - 19.00

 

 

ACCESS INFORMATION

 

This Exhibition is entirely wheelchair accessible, with accessible toilets available too.

Please email enquiries@thevaults.london if you have any specific accessibility issues.