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Image released by Wellcome Images shows a garbage mound at Fresh Kills landfill in the Staten Island borough of New York. AP Photo/Wellcome Images
Filthy Reality
London exhibition examines... dirt
Exploration of the “profound” effect dirt has on health – and our wealth.
A NEW MUSEUM EXHIBITION in London wants us to take a closer look at dirt.
The show at the Wellcome Collection explores the role of filth as humanity’s enemy and ally in history, art, science and medicine.
The exhibition ranges from 17th-century Holland to 21st-century New York and looks at dirt’s role in spreading disease, but also in spreading wealth.
It contains artworks, including sculptures made from human faeces and bricks containing dust donated by London households.
Curator Kate Forde says dirt “is a very important and profound element in the way we shape our cities.”
The exhibition Dirt: The Filthy Reality of Everyday Life opens tomorrow and runs until late August.
- AP
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