The Great Nurdle Exhibition

Nurdles: Art with a Purpose Exhibition at Quay Arts

Discover a thought-provoking exhibition exploring one of the ocean's most widespread yet often overlooked forms of plastic pollution. Featuring work by a range of artists, the exhibition shines a spotlight on nurdles – tiny plastic pellets used in the manufacture of almost all plastic products – and the environmental impact they have on our seas and coastlines.

Through creative and inspiring artworks, artists have either incorporated nurdles into their pieces or used their work to tell the story of nurdle pollution, highlighting its effects on marine wildlife, coastal habitats and human health.

Although only 2–3mm in size, nurdles are a significant source of microplastic pollution. They do not biodegrade, absorb harmful chemicals and are often mistaken for food by seabirds and marine animals. Lost during production and transport, they can travel vast distances and are incredibly difficult to remove once they reach the environment.

Taking place during the Great Global Nurdle Hunt, this exhibition encourages visitors to learn more about plastic pollution and consider the positive changes we can all make to help protect our oceans.