Little Beasts: Art, Wonder, and the Natural World is on view at the National Gallery West Building until November. I’ve never been that fascinated by taxidermy, but here’s an opportunity to see three-dimensional specimens juxtaposed with representations of them by curious minds of the 16th and 17th centuries, when the study of natural history was just beginning to be codified. Driven by the Enlightenment and advancements in technology, not to mention international trade and imperialist colonization, the study of insects and animals advanced apace. It was documented by artists whose works still influence depictions of the natural world today.
The exhibit occupies three rooms plus a theater in which a film by artist Dario Robleto plays every hour. The first room features a selection of illustrations from Joris Hoefnagel’s 16th century The Four Elements, “one of the treasures of the National Gallery’s drawing collection.” Each page will be on view for only a few weeks at a time, both to limit exposure to light and provide a more varied experience of the work.
Throughout the exhibit, specimens lent by the National Museum of Natural History are paired with art from the NGA. This exhibit is the first instance of collaboration between the two museums. Here’s hoping there will be more!
One piece I found particularly interesting is a ”cabinet of curiosities,” made to allow a well-to-do gentleman to show off his collection of specimens. It’s adorned with bronze insects and lizards, made from molds cast from the bodies of actual insects and lizards. Probably, in its time, it held dead insects and lizards.
The press tour was conducted by enthusiastic staff. Alexandra Libby, one of the co-curators, was especially animated.
There is a sumptuous catalog, and a free pamphlet-sized nature journal geared towards children with helpful suggestions to add an interactive dimension to one’s visit.
And the food angle? I understand that the Espresso & Gelato Bar in the Concourse is stocking Cricket Gelato; just outside the entrance to the Little Beasts exhibit, on the targeted merchandise cart, one can find Worm Lollipops.
Bon Appetit!
Little Beasts: Art, Wonder, and the Natural World
May 18 – November 2, 2025
National Gallery of Art, West Building, Ground Floor, Gallery 23