Artists turn greenhouses into unexpected galleries

A group of local artists are transforming working greenhouses into temporary art galleries as part of a project celebrating the island's growing heritage and encouraging people to reconnect with food production.

The exhibition, organised by the Guernsey Art Network, is taking place across three greenhouses over three September weekends.

Following a successful opening event at Bailiwick Blue in Vazon, the exhibition moves to Cornucopia at Belmont Vinery, Hougue du Pommier, on 19 and 20 September before finishing at Edible Guernsey in St Saviour's on 26 and 27 September.

Artist Emma Griffin said the idea grew out of an earlier exhibition with fellow artist James Kail at Guernsey Museum.

She explained: "We thought, why don't we take it out of the gallery and into a greenhouse and turn a greenhouse into an art gallery?"

Unlike many exhibitions, the artworks are being displayed inside working greenhouses, allowing visitors to meet growers and learn more about the island's agricultural industry.

Griffin said artists wanted to celebrate an industry that had played a major role in Guernsey's history but had declined in recent decades as many greenhouses disappeared or were replaced by housing.

For Griffin, the project is also personal. Her great-uncle, Michael Bourgaize, founded a well-known strawberry farm on the island, while other members of her family worked in the growing industry.

She said: "My granddad and my mum's first job was actually working in a greenhouse."

The exhibition has already attracted strong interest, with visitors sharing memories of family greenhouses on an interactive map.

Griffin said organisers hoped the project would inspire more islanders to grow their own food and reflect on Guernsey's agricultural roots.

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